Breast imaging is evolving, with technology that offers a different experience from the familiar mammogram. QT Imaging’s Breast Acoustic CT™ Scanner uses sound waves to create three-dimensional images of breast tissue without ionizing radiation, breast compression, or injected contrast dye. The technology provides an additional way to examine breast anatomy while making comfort part of the imaging experience. (qtimaging.com⁠)

How does QT Imaging work?

QT stands for Quantitative Transmission. The technology uses ultrasound to collect information about breast tissue and turn that information into a three-dimensional image.

The scanner measures how sound travels through the breast, including its speed through different tissues. These measurements produce quantitative maps that help characterize breast tissue, adding measurable information to the anatomical images. QT Imaging describes these speed-of-sound maps as a central component of its platform. (qtimaging.com⁠)

Although the name includes “CT,” Breast Acoustic CT uses ultrasound rather than the X-rays used in conventional CT scanning. A moving transducer gathers information around the breast to generate volumetric images. (qtimaging.com⁠)

What is the scan like?

During a QTscan, the patient lies face down on an open examination table, with one breast positioned in a warm water bath through an opening in the table. The breast hangs freely, without being compressed between plates.

The scanner uses sound waves to capture images without an injection. Its open design also avoids the enclosed tube associated with an MRI examination. These features may make the experience more comfortable for women who find breast compression or enclosed imaging environments difficult. (qtimaging.com⁠)

According to the company’s clinical FAQ, image acquisition takes approximately 10–15 minutes per breast. (qtimaging.com⁠)

A closer look at breast density

Breast density is one of the areas QT Imaging’s technology can assess. Its FDA clearances include quantitative measurement of fibroglandular tissue—the breast’s fibrous and glandular tissue—including its volume and its proportion relative to total breast volume.

This provides a numerical way to evaluate tissue composition, which can be useful for breast density assessment and monitoring changes associated with therapies. (qtimaging.com⁠)

The platform combines three-dimensional imaging with tissue measurements, giving radiologists information about both breast structure and composition. (qtimaging.com⁠)

Who might consider QT imaging?

QT Imaging identifies women with dense breasts, women with implants, and patients needing repeated imaging among the groups that may benefit from its technology. The absence of ionizing radiation and contrast injections are defining features of the examination.

Eligibility still depends on the individual. The company lists pregnancy, breastfeeding, certain implanted devices, and other conditions among its contraindications. (qtimaging.com⁠)

Where does it fit into breast care?

The QTI Breast Acoustic CT Scanner is FDA-cleared for breast imaging in women aged 18 and older. Its current role is supplemental: QT Imaging states that the device is not cleared to replace mammography for screening. (qtimaging.com⁠)

QT Imaging brings together ultrasound, three-dimensional images, and quantitative tissue measurements in an examination designed around an open table and an uncompressed breast. For women exploring supplemental breast imaging, it offers a technology with a distinct approach to both image collection and patient experience.