Understanding QT Breast Imaging: A Clinical Overview of Breast Acoustic CT™ Technology

A Supplemental Approach to Breast Imaging at Perk Imaging

Breast imaging continues to evolve as technology advances and patients seek imaging experiences that are both informative and comfortable. At Perk Imaging, we utilize QT Breast Imaging (Breast Acoustic CT™ technology) to provide a supplemental, non-ionizing, non-compression breast imaging experience designed to support breast health evaluation and patient education.

This overview is intended to help both patients and healthcare providers better understand what QT breast imaging is, how it works, and the role it may play within a broader breast health discussion.

www.qtimaging.com

QTI Breast Acoustic CT™ Technology - QT Imaging

What Is QT Breast Imaging?

QT Breast Imaging utilizes Breast Acoustic CT™ (Quantitative Transmission Ultrasound) technology to create true 3D volumetric breast images using both transmission and reflection ultrasound.

Unlike mammography, QT Imaging:

• does not use ionizing radiation

• does not require breast compression

• is performed with pendant breast positioning in a warm water bath

• produces 3D volumetric imaging data for radiologist interpretation

Images obtained during the examination are reviewed and interpreted by board-certified radiologists.

QT breast imaging uses a different imaging technology than mammography and may provide additional imaging information when incorporated into a patient’s broader breast health evaluation.

How QT Breast Imaging Works

During the examination, the patient lies comfortably in a prone position while the breast is positioned within a warm water bath.

The QT imaging system uses two forms of ultrasound-based imaging:

Transmission Ultrasound

Transmission ultrasound evaluates acoustic properties within breast tissue and generates quantitative speed-of-sound information, which may assist in characterizing tissue composition.

Reflection Ultrasound

Reflection ultrasound produces structural imaging information to visualize internal breast anatomy. Together, these datasets are reconstructed into true 3D volumetric breast images for radiologist interpretation. The examination is non-invasive and designed to provide a comfortable imaging experience without breast compression.

The Clinical Role of QT Breast Imaging

QT breast imaging is intended to serve as a supplemental breast imaging modality.

It is important to understand that QT imaging:

✔ is supplemental/complementary in nature

✔ utilizes a different imaging modality than mammography

✔ may provide additional imaging information in some clinical situations

✔ may require correlation with additional imaging or clinical findings

QT breast imaging is not represented as a replacement for screening mammography, medically indicated diagnostic evaluation, or ongoing clinical care.

Clinical decision-making, screening recommendations, and medical management remain the responsibility of the patient and their treating healthcare provider.

The Patient Experience

One of the unique aspects of QT Breast Imaging is the patient experience.

The examination is designed to be:

• non-compression

• non-ionizing (radiation-free)

• non-invasive

• performed in a private clinical environment

During the scan, patients lie comfortably while images are acquired through a warm water bath system using pendant breast positioning.

Examination timing may vary based on individual circumstances and imaging needs.

Results and Reporting

QT Breast Imaging studies performed at Perk Imaging are interpreted by board-certified radiologists.

Reports are generally made available within approximately 14 days following examination completion.

Depending on patient authorization and referral circumstances, results may be:

• posted to the patient portal

• forwarded to an identified healthcare provider

• incorporated into broader care coordination when appropriate

Additional imaging or clinical follow-up may still be recommended based on imaging findings and radiologist interpretation.

A normal imaging examination does not exclude the possibility of breast pathology or malignancy, and clinical correlation remains important.

A Collaborative Approach to Breast Health

Perk Imaging believes informed healthcare decisions begin with education and communication.

QT Breast Imaging may serve as a supplemental imaging option for individuals seeking additional breast imaging information or a non-compression, non-ionizing imaging experience.

Patients are encouraged to discuss breast imaging recommendations and personal screening decisions with their healthcare provider to determine what approach is most appropriate for their individual clinical circumstances.

Important Information

Perk Imaging does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, and patients should review imaging findings and recommendations with their healthcare provider.

Insurance & Coverage Considerations

Insurance coverage for breast imaging technologies continues to evolve.

There are ongoing industry discussions and developing pathways regarding future insurance reimbursement for certain supplemental breast imaging services, including emerging imaging technologies.

However, coverage policies vary significantly between carriers and are subject to change.

At this time, The QT Scan at Perk Imaging is considered a self-pay service, and insurance coverage or reimbursement cannot be guaranteed.

Patients are encouraged to contact their insurance carrier directly regarding individual benefits and coverage questions.