Women's tolerance of breast propagation-based phase-contrast computed tomography (PB-CT) positioning procedure

Abstract

Introduction: Propagation-based phase-contrast computed tomography (PB-CT) as an advanced experimental imaging modality for breast cancer detection is nearing its world-first clinical trial. Due to the stationary synchrotron X-ray beam, participants must be rotated to capture CT data, yet tolerance to this rotation remains unassessed. Methods: Participants underwent a simulated PB-CT procedure involving breast cups fitting and bed rotations at 10, 20, and 30° per second (°/s). The 30°/s rotation was repeated under eyes-open, eyes-closed, and breath-held conditions. Comfort was assessed via the Fast Motion Sickness Scale (FMS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory – State (STAI-S), comfort questionn..