Objective:

To discuss the average gland dose (AGD) of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and full-field digital mammography (FFDM).

Methods:

A total of 209 cases with clinically palpable breast masses who received mammography examination in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center from Jul. to Sep. 2016 were selected. Among them

100 cases were enrolled in DBT-HR mode to be exposed to FFDM and high-angle DBT

and 109 cases were enrolled in DBT-ST mode t

o be exposed to FFDM and small-angle DBT. The difference in AGD between DBT-HR mode and DBT-ST mode was analyzed.

Results:

There was statistically significant difference in AGD in cranio-caudal view (CC) and medial lateral oblique view (MLO) between DBT and FFDM in DBT-HR mode group. But there was no statistically significant difference in AGD of CC and MLO between DBT and FFDM in DBT-ST mode group. AGD of FFDM in CC and MLO was not significantly different between DBT-HR mode and DBTST mode

but AGD of DBT was significantly different.

Conclusion:

In DBT-ST mode

there is no difference in AGD of DBT and FFDM. In DBT-HR mode

AGD of DBT is higher than that of FFDM

but still in the prescribed radiation dose range. DBT is a safe and reliable examination technology.