Mammography breast compression device and method

摘要

A breast compression device is disclosed for use in a mammography system. A paddle support frame is provided which is slidably connected to a system arm of the mammography system. The paddle support frame is located between the x-ray tube and the detector of the mammography system. A compression paddle is pivotally connected within the support frame by a pivot connection. The pivot connection is located on a chest wall side of the support frame. The chest wall side is opposite the system arm. The compression paddle is substantially horizontal to the detector and is rotatable around the pivot connection. The compression paddle may include a breast portion which is substantially parallel to the detector and a chest wall portion which is substantially vertical to the detector. The compression paddle may also have a contoured shape where the chest wall portion is angled away from the system arm and the breast portion is contoured to mimic the contours of the breast.