Project Overview

The purpose of this project is to develop a remote-controlled device for early detection and treatment of breast cancer. By leveraging the breast cancer-screening power of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we hope to dramatically increase the survival rate of women with breast cancers.

Device Intentions

MRI has a much greater ability for diagnosing breast cancer as compared with other imaging modalities, such as the standard X-ray mammogram. The device being designed would be used if a physician finds a suspicious-looking lesion on an MR scan, a mammogram, or other breast exam. Using MR images generated in real-time (while the patient is in the MR scanner), the physician will plan a minimally-invasive intervention. Diagnostic interventions would likely be a core biopsy needle, which is the first goal of the project. Treating the suspicious tissue is another option, perhaps by minimally-invasive lesion removal, lesion destruction (ablation), or other options. These treatments show promise for greatly reduced trauma compared to masectomy or lumpectomy.

The physician plans a "path" for the intervention, finding the best route to the center of the lesion accurately on a computer before the intervention begins. During the intervention itself, the physician can monitor the progress by viewing real-time MR images.