Evaluation and routine testing in medical imaging departments - Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests - Imaging performance of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a mammographic tomosynthesis mode of operation

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 applies to the performance of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT when used in MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation, with respect to image quality and dose.
Excluded from the scope of this document are:
- MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT modes of operation other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS;
- 2D images synthesised from the tomosynthesis images;
- reconstructive TOMOGRAPHY other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS;
- CT SCANNERS covered by IEC 61223-3-5.
IEC 61223-3-6:2020 defines
a) the essential parameters which describe the acceptability criteria of MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT with regard to image quality and dose,
b) the methods of testing whether measured quantities related to those parameters comply with specified tolerances, and
c) CONSTANCY TEST frequency when required.
This document is intended to be applied along with the acceptability criteria included in IEC 61223-3-2 or equivalent protocol for 2D mammography which are also relevant for MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation.
These methods mainly rely on non-invasive measurements that use appropriate test equipment and are performed during or after the installation. Signed statements covering steps in the installation procedure can be used as part of the ACCEPTANCE TEST. Tests required by a higher level of compliance take precedence over similar tests with a lower level of compliance.
When the results of the ACCEPTANCE TEST are in compliance with the expected values, the BASELINE VALUES for the subsequent CONSTANCY TESTS are established.

Essais d'évaluation et de routine dans les services d'imagerie médicale - Partie 3-6: Essais d'acceptation et de constance - Performance d'imagerie des appareils de mammographie à rayonnement X utilisés en mode tomosynthèse en mammographie

L'IEC 61223-3-6:2020 s'applique aux performances des APPAREILS DE MAMMOGRAPHIE A RAYONNEMENT X utilisés en mode TOMOSYNTHESE EN MAMMOGRAPHIE, en matière de qualité d'image et de dose.
Sont exclus du domaine d'application du présent document:
- les modes de fonctionnement des APPAREILS DE MAMMOGRAPHIE A RAYONNEMENT X autres que la TOMOSYNTHESE EN MAMMOGRAPHIE;
- les images 2D synthétisées à partir d'images de tomosynthèse;
- la TOMOGRAPHIE reconstructrice autre que la TOMOSYNTHESE EN MAMMOGRAPHIE;
- les TOMODENSITOMETRES couverts par l'IEC 61223-3-5.
L'IEC 61223-3-6:2020 définit:
a) les paramètres essentiels qui décrivent les critères d'acceptabilité des modes TOMOSYNTHESE EN MAMMOGRAPHIE des APPAREILS DE MAMMOGRAPHIE A RAYONNEMENT X en matière de qualité d'image et de dose;
b) les méthodes d'essai visant à déterminer si les grandeurs mesurées liées à ces paramètres sont conformes aux tolérances spécifiées; et
c) la fréquence d'ESSAI DE CONSTANCE, le cas échéant.
Le présent document est destiné à s'appliquer avec les critères d'acceptabilité inclus dans l'IEC 61223-3-2 ou un protocole de mammographie 2D équivalent, lesquels s'appliquent également aux modes TOMOSYNTHESE EN MAMMOGRAPHIE.
Ces méthodes reposent principalement sur des mesures non invasives, exécutées pendant ou après l'installation, en utilisant des équipements d'essai appropriés. Des déclarations signées couvrant des étapes de la procédure d'installation peuvent être utilisées dans le cadre de l'ESSAI D'ACCEPTATION. Les essais exigés par un niveau de conformité plus élevé prévalent sur les essais similaires associés à un niveau de conformité plus faible.
Lorsque les résultats de l'ESSAI D'ACCEPTATION sont conformes aux valeurs attendues, les VALEURS DE BASE des ESSAIS DE CONSTANCE ultérieurs sont établies.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
06-Feb-2020
Drafting Committee
WG 31 - TC 62/SC 62B/WG 31
Current Stage
PPUB - Publication issued
Start Date
14-Feb-2020
Completion Date
07-Feb-2020

Overview

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 is an international standard established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on the evaluation and routine testing of mammographic X-ray equipment operating in mammographic tomosynthesis mode. This document sets acceptance and constancy test procedures aimed at assessing imaging performance related to image quality and radiation dose in specialized tomosynthesis mammography systems. The standard specifically addresses imaging performance testing and excludes other mammographic modes, 2D synthesized images, non-tomosynthesis tomography, and CT scanners relevant to other IEC standards.

This standard is critical for medical imaging departments to ensure the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of mammographic tomosynthesis equipment used for breast cancer screening and diagnostics.

Key Topics

  • Scope and Application
    The standard applies exclusively to mammographic X-ray systems operating in mammographic tomosynthesis mode. It defines essential parameters governing acceptance criteria for image quality and patient dose.

  • Acceptance Testing
    Establishes baseline performance values post-installation through non-invasive measurements with test equipment. Acceptance tests ensure that the equipment meets regulatory, contractual, and general performance requirements before clinical use.

  • Constancy Testing
    Details periodic test schedules and methods to verify that equipment performance remains consistent over time by comparing against baseline values established during acceptance.

  • Test Parameters and Methods
    The standard outlines comprehensive test protocols including:

    • Alignment and collimation checks to confirm mechanical precision.
    • Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) system performance including short-term and long-term reproducibility.
    • Image receptor response functions and defective detector element identification.
    • System projection Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) assessments.
    • Phantom testing for image quality of reconstructed tomosynthesis images.
    • Evaluation of z-resolution or artifact spread functions to verify slice thickness and image fidelity.
    • Detection of missed tissue areas in reconstructed volumes critical for diagnostic completeness.
  • Regulatory and Contractual Compliance
    IEC 61223-3-6 emphasizes compliance with local regulations and contractual obligations, giving precedence to stricter test levels when applicable.

  • Documentation and Test Equipment
    Specifies the need for detailed documentation and software or dosimetry tools used for quantitative assessment and data analysis in the test procedures.

Applications

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 is valuable for:

  • Medical Imaging Departments
    Facilitates routine and acceptance testing of mammographic tomosynthesis systems, ensuring high diagnostic image quality and radiation safety.

  • Quality Assurance Programs
    Supports quality control managers and medical physicists in maintaining compliance with performance standards through consistent monitoring.

  • Medical Device Manufacturers
    Guides manufacturers in validating the imaging performance of tomosynthesis equipment before market release or installation.

  • Regulatory Bodies and Inspectors
    Provides a framework for evaluating equipment compliance during regulatory audits or inspections.

  • Healthcare Institutions Implementing Tomosynthesis
    Ensures that mammographic tomosynthesis systems perform optimally to enhance breast cancer detection without unnecessary radiation exposure.

Related Standards

  • IEC 61223-3-2
    Covers acceptance and constancy tests related to 2D mammography systems, complementing the parameters relevant for tomosynthesis in IEC 61223-3-6.

  • IEC 61223-3-5
    Addresses acceptance and constancy tests for computed tomography scanners, distinctly separate from mammographic tomosynthesis.

  • Local Regulatory Standards and Protocols
    Hospitals and clinics must adhere to country-specific regulations which may supersede or enhance test requirements defined by IEC 61223-3-6.

Summary

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 is a specialized standard that ensures mammographic tomosynthesis X-ray equipment delivers reliable image quality while controlling radiation dose. By defining clear acceptance and constancy test procedures, the document supports healthcare providers in maintaining high standards of breast imaging services and patient safety. Adopting this standard strengthens medical imaging quality assurance programs and aligns with global regulatory expectations for mammographic tomosynthesis technology.

Standard

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 - Evaluation and routine testing in medical imaging departments - Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests - Imaging performance of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a mammographic tomosynthesis mode of operation

English and French language
108 pages
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Frequently Asked Questions

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 is a standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its full title is "Evaluation and routine testing in medical imaging departments - Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests - Imaging performance of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a mammographic tomosynthesis mode of operation". This standard covers: IEC 61223-3-6:2020 applies to the performance of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT when used in MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation, with respect to image quality and dose. Excluded from the scope of this document are: - MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT modes of operation other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS; - 2D images synthesised from the tomosynthesis images; - reconstructive TOMOGRAPHY other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS; - CT SCANNERS covered by IEC 61223-3-5. IEC 61223-3-6:2020 defines a) the essential parameters which describe the acceptability criteria of MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT with regard to image quality and dose, b) the methods of testing whether measured quantities related to those parameters comply with specified tolerances, and c) CONSTANCY TEST frequency when required. This document is intended to be applied along with the acceptability criteria included in IEC 61223-3-2 or equivalent protocol for 2D mammography which are also relevant for MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation. These methods mainly rely on non-invasive measurements that use appropriate test equipment and are performed during or after the installation. Signed statements covering steps in the installation procedure can be used as part of the ACCEPTANCE TEST. Tests required by a higher level of compliance take precedence over similar tests with a lower level of compliance. When the results of the ACCEPTANCE TEST are in compliance with the expected values, the BASELINE VALUES for the subsequent CONSTANCY TESTS are established.

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 applies to the performance of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT when used in MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation, with respect to image quality and dose. Excluded from the scope of this document are: - MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT modes of operation other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS; - 2D images synthesised from the tomosynthesis images; - reconstructive TOMOGRAPHY other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS; - CT SCANNERS covered by IEC 61223-3-5. IEC 61223-3-6:2020 defines a) the essential parameters which describe the acceptability criteria of MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT with regard to image quality and dose, b) the methods of testing whether measured quantities related to those parameters comply with specified tolerances, and c) CONSTANCY TEST frequency when required. This document is intended to be applied along with the acceptability criteria included in IEC 61223-3-2 or equivalent protocol for 2D mammography which are also relevant for MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation. These methods mainly rely on non-invasive measurements that use appropriate test equipment and are performed during or after the installation. Signed statements covering steps in the installation procedure can be used as part of the ACCEPTANCE TEST. Tests required by a higher level of compliance take precedence over similar tests with a lower level of compliance. When the results of the ACCEPTANCE TEST are in compliance with the expected values, the BASELINE VALUES for the subsequent CONSTANCY TESTS are established.

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 11.040.50 - Radiographic equipment. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

You can purchase IEC 61223-3-6:2020 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of IEC standards.

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IEC 61223-3-6 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Evaluation and routine testing in medical imaging departments –
Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests – Imaging performance
of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a mammographic tomosynthesis
mode of operation
Essais d'évaluation et de routine dans les services d'imagerie médicale –
Partie 3-6: Essais d'acceptation et de constance – Performance d'imagerie
des appareils de mammographie à rayonnement X utilisés en mode
tomosynthèse en mammographie
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IEC 61223-3-6 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Evaluation and routine testing in medical imaging departments –

Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests – Imaging performance

of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a mammographic tomosynthesis

mode of operation
Essais d'évaluation et de routine dans les services d'imagerie médicale –

Partie 3-6: Essais d'acceptation et de constance – Performance d'imagerie

des appareils de mammographie à rayonnement X utilisés en mode

tomosynthèse en mammographie
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 11.040.50 ISBN 978-2-8322-7812-3

– 2 – IEC 61223-3-6:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 6
INTRODUCTION . 8
1 Scope and object . 9
2 Normative references . 9
3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviated terms . 10
3.1 Terms and definitions. 10
3.2 Symbols and abbreviated terms . 13
4 General aspects of the ACCEPTANCE TEST . 13
4.1 Levels of requirements . 13
4.1.1 Local regulatory . 13
4.1.2 Contractual . 13
4.1.3 General . 13
4.2 General conditions in test procedures . 13
4.3 Documents and data for the tests. 14
4.4 Test conditions . 14
4.5 Scope of tests . 15
4.6 Test equipment . 15
4.6.1 General . 15
4.6.2 Analysis software . 16
4.6.3 DOSIMETER . 16
4.7 Evaluating the test results . 16
5 General aspects of CONSTANCY TESTS . 17
5.1 Establishment of BASELINE VALUES . 17
5.2 Frequency of CONSTANCY TESTS . 17
6 Summary of tests for MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS equipment . 17
7 Inventory and initial tests for MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS equipment . 18
7.1 Requirements . 18
7.2 Test method . 19
7.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 19
7.3.1 Test method . 19
7.3.2 Frequency of testing . 19
7.4 Action to be taken . 19
8 Alignment and collimation checks . 19
8.1 Requirements . 19
8.2 Test method . 19
8.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 20
8.3.1 Test method . 20
8.3.2 Frequency of testing . 20
8.4 Equipment . 20
8.5 Action to be taken . 20
9 AEC-system . 20
9.1 General . 20
9.2 Short term reproducibility . 21
9.2.1 Requirements . 21
9.2.2 Test method . 21
9.2.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 21

9.2.4 Equipment . 21
9.2.5 Action to be taken . 21
9.3 Long term reproducibility . 21
9.3.1 Requirements . 21
9.3.2 Test method . 22
9.3.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 22
9.3.4 Action to be taken . 22
9.4 AEC performance . 22
9.4.1 Requirements . 22
9.4.2 Test method . 22
9.4.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 25
9.4.4 Equipment . 25
9.4.5 Action to be taken . 25
10 Image receptor . 25
10.1 Response function . 25
10.1.1 General . 25
10.1.2 Requirements . 26
10.1.3 Test method . 26
10.1.4 CONSTANCY TESTING . 26
10.1.5 Action to be taken . 26
10.2 Detector element failure . 27
10.2.1 Requirements . 27
10.2.2 Test method . 27
10.2.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 27
10.2.4 Equipment . 27
10.2.5 Action to be taken . 27
10.3 Uncorrected DEFECTIVE DETECTOR ELEMENTS . 27
10.3.1 General . 27
10.3.2 Requirements . 27
10.3.3 Test method . 27
10.3.4 CONSTANCY TESTING . 28
10.3.5 Equipment . 28
10.3.6 Action to be taken . 28
10.4 System PROJECTION MTF . 28
10.4.1 General . 28
10.4.2 Requirements . 28
10.4.3 Test method . 29
10.4.4 CONSTANCY TESTING . 29
10.4.5 Equipment . 29
10.4.6 Action to be taken . 29
11 Image quality of the reconstructed image . 29
11.1 PHANTOM testing . 29
11.1.1 General . 29
11.1.2 Requirements . 29
11.1.3 Test method . 30
11.1.4 CONSTANCY TESTING . 30
11.1.5 Action to be taken . 30
11.2 z-resolution (ARTEFACT spread function) . 30
11.2.1 Requirements . 30

– 4 – IEC 61223-3-6:2020 © IEC 2020
11.2.2 Test method . 30
11.2.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 32
11.2.4 Equipment . 32
11.2.5 Action to be taken . 32
12 Missed tissue . 32
12.1 General . 32
12.2 Missed tissue at chest wall side in the reconstructed tomosynthesis volume . 33
12.2.1 Requirements . 33
12.2.2 Test method . 33
12.2.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 33
12.2.4 Equipment . 33
12.2.5 Action to be taken . 33
12.3 Missed tissue at the top and bottom of the reconstructed tomosynthesis
volume . 33
12.3.1 Requirements . 33
12.3.2 Test method . 33
12.3.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 34
12.3.4 Equipment . 35
12.3.5 Action to be taken . 35
13 ARTEFACTS in the tomosynthesis data sets . 35
13.1 General . 35
13.2 ARTEFACT evaluation . 35
13.2.1 Requirements . 35
13.2.2 Test method . 35
13.2.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 35
13.2.4 Equipment . 35
13.2.5 Action to be taken . 35
13.3 GEOMETRIC DISTORTION . 35
13.3.1 Requirements . 35
13.3.2 Test method . 36
13.3.3 Equipment . 37
13.3.4 Action to be taken . 37
14 Dosimetry for digital breast tomosynthesis . 37
14.1 Requirements . 37
14.2 Test method . 38
14.3 CONSTANCY TESTING . 39
14.3.1 Test method . 39
14.3.2 Frequency of testing . 39
14.4 Equipment . 39
14.5 Action to be taken . 39
Annex A (informative) Tables for dosimetry calculation in digital breast tomosynthesis . 40
Annex B (normative) Guidance on action to be taken . 44
B.1 Failing the ESTABLISHED CRITERIA at first measurement . 44
B.2 Failing the ESTABLISHED CRITERIA at multiple measurements . 44
B.3 Marginally failing the ESTABLISHED CRITERIA . 44
B.4 History of repeatedly failing the ESTABLISHED CRITERIA . 44
B.5 Substantially failing the ESTABLISHED CRITERIA . 45
B.6 Cases not covered by Clauses B.1 to B.5 . 45

Annex C (informative) Image quality evaluation . 46
Annex D (informative) ARTEFACTS . 47
Bibliography . 48
Index of defined terms . 52

Figure 1 – Set-up for measuring the alignment between the reconstructed and the
irradiated volume at the chest wall edge of the PATIENT SUPPORT. 20
Figure 2 – Top and 3D view of setup for the AEC performance measurements . 23
Figure 3 – Placement of ROI for the AEC performance measurement . 24
Figure 4 – Top and 3D view of setup for the evaluation of z-resolution . 31
Figure 5 – Front and side view of setup for the evaluation of z-resolution . 32
Figure 6 – Configuration for the determination of missed tissue for curved paddles . 34
Figure 7 – Top and 3D view of setup for the evaluation of GEOMETRIC DISTORTION . 36
Figure 8 – Front and side view of setup for the evaluation of GEOMETRIC DISTORTION . 37
Figure 9 –Top and 3D view of position of DOSIMETER to determine the incident AIR
KERMA for dose estimation . 39

Table 1 – Tests, test frequencies, and test objects used in this document . 17
Table 2 – Height of the compression paddle when using different PMMA thicknesses . 24
Table 3 – Limits for AGD versus the thickness of the PMMA and the height of the
compression paddle . 38
Table A.1 – g factors for breasts simulated with PMMA . 40
Table A.2 – c factors for breasts simulated with PMMA . 40
Table A.3 – Typical HVL measurements for different tube voltage and TARGET FILTER
combinations . 41
Table A.4 – s factors for clinically used spectra . 41
Table A.5 – s factors for clinically used spectra with W TARGET material . 41
Table A.6 – s factors for a tungsten TARGET filtered by 0,5 mm aluminium. 42
Table A.7 – s factors for a tungsten TARGET filtered by 0,7 mm aluminium. 42
Table A.8 – T factors vs. PMMA thickness for a variety of scan angles . 43

– 6 – IEC 61223-3-6:2020 © IEC 2020
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
EVALUATION AND ROUTINE TESTING
IN MEDICAL IMAGING DEPARTMENTS –

Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests –
Imaging performance of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a
mammographic tomosynthesis mode of operation

FOREWORD
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International Standard IEC 61223-3-6 has been prepared by subcommittee 62B: Diagnostic
imaging equipment, of IEC technical committee 62: Electrical equipment in medical practice.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
62B/1127/CDV 62B/1148/RVC
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in the
report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

In this document, the following print types are used:
– requirements, compliance with which can be tested, and definitions: in roman type.
– explanations, advice, notes, general statements, exceptions and references: in smaller type;
– TERMS USED THROUGHOUT THIS DOCUMENT THAT HAVE BEEN LISTED IN THE INDEX OF DEFINED
TERMS AND DEFINED IN CLAUSE 3, OR IN OTHER STANDARDS: IN SMALL CAPITALS.
A list of all parts of the IEC 61223 series, published under the general title Evaluation and
routine testing in medical imaging departments, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
NOTE The attention of the users of this document is drawn to the fact that equipment MANUFACTURERS and testing
organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in
which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or
revised tests. It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this publication be adopted for
implementation nationally not earlier than 3 years from the date of publication.

IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.

– 8 – IEC 61223-3-6:2020 © IEC 2020
INTRODUCTION
IEC 61223 (all parts) gives methods for ACCEPTANCE TESTS and CONSTANCY TESTS for diagnostic
X-RAY EQUIPMENT.
This part of IEC 61223 describes test methods for the ACCEPTANCE and CONSTANCY TESTS of
MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT used in a MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS MODE OF OPERATION.

EVALUATION AND ROUTINE TESTING
IN MEDICAL IMAGING DEPARTMENTS –

Part 3-6: Acceptance and constancy tests –
Imaging performance of mammographic X-ray equipment used in a
mammographic tomosynthesis mode of operation

1 Scope and object
This part of IEC 61223 applies to the performance of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT when
used in MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation, with respect to image quality and
dose.
Excluded from the scope of this document are:
– MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT modes of operation other than MAMMOGRAPHIC
TOMOSYNTHESIS;
– 2D images synthesised from the tomosynthesis images;
– reconstructive TOMOGRAPHY other than MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS;
– CT SCANNERS covered by IEC 61223-3-5.
This document defines:
a) the essential parameters which describe the acceptability criteria of MAMMOGRAPHIC
TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation of MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT with regard to
image quality and dose,
b) the methods of testing whether measured quantities related to those parameters comply
with specified tolerances, and
c) CONSTANCY TEST frequency when required.
This document is intended to be applied along with the acceptability criteria included in
IEC 61223-3-2 or equivalent protocol for 2D mammography which are also relevant for
MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS modes of operation.
These methods mainly rely on non-invasive measurements that use appropriate test equipment
and are performed during or after the installation. Signed statements covering steps in the
installation procedure can be used as part of the ACCEPTANCE TEST. Tests required by a higher
level of compliance take precedence over similar tests with a lower level of compliance.
When the results of the ACCEPTANCE TEST are in compliance with the expected values, the
BASELINE VALUES for the subsequent CONSTANCY TESTS are established.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60601-2-45:2011, Medical electrical equipment – Part 2-45: Particular requirements for
basic safety and essential performance of mammographic X-ray equipment and mammographic
stereotactic devices
IEC 60601-2-45:2011/AMD1:2015
– 10 – IEC 61223-3-6:2020 © IEC 2020
IEC 61223-3-2:2007, Evaluation and routine testing in medical imaging departments – Part 3-
2: Acceptance tests – Imaging performance of mammographic X-ray equipment
IEC 61674:2012, Medical electrical equipment – Dosimeters with ionization chambers and/or
semiconductor detectors as used in X-ray diagnostic imaging
3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviated terms
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60601-2-45,
IEC 61223-3-2 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1.1
ACCEPTANCE TEST
test carried out after new equipment has been installed, or major modifications have been made
to existing equipment, in order to verify compliance with contractual specifications
[SOURCE: IEC TR 61223-1:1993, 3.2.4]
3.1.2
ARTEFACT
apparent structure, visible in the image, which does not represent a structure within the object
[SOURCE: IEC 61223-3-4:2000, 3.3.1]
3.1.3
AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE CONTROL
AEC
MODE OF OPERATION, in a radiological equipment, in which, in reaction to the properties of the
object, one or more of the LOADING FACTORS or IRRADIATION conditions are controlled
automatically in order to obtain a specified quantity of RADIATION of a desired quality
Note 1 to entry: Examples of such properties of the object are: thickness, composition, or X-ray TRANSMISSION.
Examples for IRRADIATION conditions are anode materials of the X-RAY TUBE and ADDED FILTERS.
Note 2 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.1.4
AVERAGE GLANDULAR DOSE
AGD
X-ray mammography average ABSORBED DOSE in the glandular tissue (excluding skin) in a
uniformly compressed breast of known tissue composition, using a specified calculation method
[SOURCE: IEC 61223-3-2:2007, 3.7]
3.1.5
BASELINE VALUE
reference value of functional parameter, which is either:
– the value obtained for this parameter in the initial CONSTANCY TEST immediately following a
STATUS TEST, or
– where described in a corresponding particular standard, the mean value of values obtained
in a series of initial CONSTANCY TESTS, immediately following a STATUS TEST

3.1.6
CONSTANCY TEST
CONSTANCY TESTING
each of a series of tests, carried out:
– to ensure that the functional performance of the equipment meets ESTABLISHED CRITERIA; or
– to enable the early recognition of changes in the properties of components of the equipment
Note 1 to entry: May use a subset of the ACCEPTANCE TEST.
[SOURCE: IEC TR 61223-1:1993, 3.2.6, modified – Note 1 to entry has been added.]
3.1.7
DIAGNOSTIC DOSIMETER
DOSIMETER
equipment which uses IONIZATION CHAMBERS and/or semiconductor detectors for the
measurement of AIR KERMA, AIR KERMA length and/or AIR KERMA RATE in the beam of an X-ray
machine used for diagnostic medical radiological examinations
Note 1 to entry: A DIAGNOSTIC DOSIMETER contains the following components:
– one or more detector assemblies which may or may not be an integral part of the measuring assembly;
– a measuring assembly; and/or
– one or more stability check devices.
[SOURCE: IEC 61674:2012, 3.1, modified – Note 1 to entry has been rephrased.]
3.1.8
ESTABLISHED CRITERIA
acceptable variations, in a QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAMME, in results of a CONSTANCY TEST
which signal satisfactory functional performance of the equipment tested
3.1.9
FOCAL SPOT
perpendicular PROJECTION of the actual FOCAL SPOT on the reference plane
Note 1 to entry: The shortened term "FOCAL SPOT" refers to the effective FOCAL SPOT (IEC 60806 [1] ).
3.1.10
LINEARIZED DATA
ORIGINAL DATA to which the inverse CONVERSION FUNCTION has been applied
Note 1 to entry: The LINEARIZED DATA are directly proportional to the AIR KERMA.
Note 2 to entry: For practical reasons, AIR KERMA proportional data can be generated by applying the inverse
response function (see 10.1.3).
[SOURCE: IEC 62220-1-2:2007, 3.7, modified – Note 2 to entry has been added.]
3.1.11
MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS
DBT
technique using MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT to produce multiple tomographic images
reconstructed from multiple PROJECTIONS acquired over a total angular range of less than 180°
Note 1 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
[SOURCE: IEC 60601-2-45:2011 and IEC 60601-2-45:2011/AMD1:2015, 201.3.210, modified –
The abbreviated term "DBT" has been added, as well as Note 1 to entry.]
___________
Numbers in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.

– 12 – IEC 61223-3-6:2020 © IEC 2020
3.1.12
MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY
non-negative parameter characterizing the dispersion of the quantity values being attributed to
a measurand, based on the information used
[SOURCE: ISO/IEC Guide 99:2007, 2.26, modified – The notes to entry have been deleted.]
3.1.13
ORIGINAL DATA
RAW DATA to which the corrections as in normal clinical use have been applied
Note 1 to entry: Some detectors execute linear image processing due to their physical concept. As long as this
image processing is linear and image-independent, these operations are allowed as an exception.
Note 2 to entry: See IEC 60601-2-45:2011, 201.3.208.
3.1.14
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAMME
detailed instruction for carrying out actions of quality assurance for individual items of
equipment, systems of equipment or facilities, including quality administrative elements and
QUALITY CONTROL techniques
3.1.15
RAW DATA
PIXEL values read directly after the analogue-digital-conversion from the DIGITAL X-RAY IMAGING
or counts from photon counting systems without any corrections
DEVICE
[SOURCE: IEC 60601-2-45:2011, 201.3.209, modified – The word "software" has been deleted
in "software corrections".]
3.1.16
REFERENCE ROI
REGION OF INTEREST (size 5 mm x 5 mm) in the PROJECTION
Note 1 to entry: The centre of the ROI is positioned 60 mm perpendicular to the chest edge of the PATIENT SUPPORT
and centred laterally.
Note 2 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.1.17
SIGNAL DIFFERENCE TO NOISE RATIO
SDNR
ratio, in a digital image, of the difference of mean PIXEL values of the contrast object and image
background and the standard deviation of the image background PIXEL value
Note 1 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.1.18
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO
SNR
measure of signal strength versus the background NOISE, defined as the ratio of mean PIXEL
values of an area of interest in an image to the standard deviation of the PIXEL value of the area
of interest
Note 1 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.1.19
STATUS TEST
test carried out to establish the functional status of equipment at a given time

3.1.20
ZERO DEGREE ANGLE STATIONARY MODE
MODE OF OPERATION of the tomosynthesis equipment identical to a tomosynthesis mode, without
the tomosynthesis movement of the X-RAY BEAM with the PATIENT SUPPORT surface positioned
horizontally and the beam axis as close as possible perpendicular to it
3.2 Symbols and abbreviated terms
Symbol/abbreviated
Physical quantity/Description Unit
term
K ENTRANCE SURFACE AIR KERMA mGy
E
FWHM full width at half maximum mm
MTF MODULATION TRANSFER FUNCTION -
PMMA polymethylmethacrylate -
ROI region of interest -
4 General aspects of the ACCEPTANCE TEST
4.1 Levels of requirements
4.1.1 Local regulatory
Local regulatory requirements, including test procedures and acceptable values, shall take
precedence over similar contractual requirements or corresponding items in this document.
4.1.2 Contractual
Individual contractual requirements, including test procedures and acceptable values, shall take
precedence over similar corresponding items in this document.
Requirements for STATUS TESTS should be included in the contractual requirements.
4.1.3 General
In the absence of specific regulatory or contractual requirements, the test procedures in this
document shall be applicable.
Values and acceptable tolerances shall be in accordance with the MANUFACTURER’s
specifications for the equipment.
The aim of the ACCEPTANCE TEST is to demonstrate that the specified characteristics of the
equipment lie within specified tolerances. These tolerances are determin
...

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IEC 61223-3-6:2020 표준 문서는 유방 촬영 기계에서 유방 사진 합성 모드의 작동에 적용되는 수리 및 평가에 대한 중요한 기준을 제공합니다. 이 표준의 범위는 유방 사진 합성 모드에서의 영상 품질 및 방사선량 측면에서의 MAMMOGRAPHIC X-RAY EQUIPMENT의 성능을 중점적으로 평가하고 있습니다. 특히, 이 문서는 영상 품질 및 방사선량과 관련된 필수 매개변수를 정의하고, 이를 기준으로 Acceptability Criteria를 설정합니다. 이 표준의 강점은 MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS에서의 영상 성능을 철저히 평가하기 위한 방법론을 제시한다는 점입니다. 비침습적인 측정을 기반으로 한 테스트 방법을 제시하여 장비 설치 중 또는 설치 후에 수행할 수 있도록 설계되었습니다. 이러한 접근 방식은 안전성을 높이고 사용자 경험을 개선하는 데 기여합니다. 또한, 문서 내에서 제시된 CONSTANCY TEST의 주기와 ACCEPTANCE TEST의 결과가 기대값에 부합할 때 후속 CONSTANCY TEST의 기준선 값을 설정하는 과정은 성능 유지보수에 필수적입니다. 이는 의료 영상 분야에서 장비의 신뢰성을 확보하는 데 중요한 역할을 합니다. 결국, IEC 61223-3-6:2020 표준은 유방 사진 합성 모드에서의 유방 X-선 장비 사용에 있어 품질 및 안전성을 보장하는 데 필요한 토대를 제공하며, 이에 따라 의료진 및 환자 모두에게 이익을 주는 중요한 기준으로 작용합니다.

La norme IEC 61223-3-6:2020 porte sur l'évaluation et les tests de routine dans les départements d'imagerie médicale, spécifiquement pour l'équipement de rayons X mammographique utilisé en mode de tomosynthèse mammaire. Cette norme se distingue par son application ciblée sur les performances d'imagerie, se concentrant sur la qualité de l'image et la dose, ce qui en fait un instrument essentiel pour garantir des évaluations fiables en tomosynthèse mammaire. Le champ d'application de cette norme est clairement défini, excluant les autres modes d'opération d'équipement de rayons X mammographique, les images 2D synthétisées, ainsi que la tomographie reconstructive non liée à la tomosynthèse mammaire. Cette précision ajoute de la clarté et de la pertinence à la norme, assurant qu'elle est utilisée dans le contexte correct et pour les applications appropriées. Les forces principales de la norme résident dans la définition détaillée des paramètres essentiels qui décrivent les critères d'acceptabilité des modes de tomosynthèse mammaire. En fournissant des méthodes de test pour vérifier la conformité des quantités mesurées avec les tolérances spécifiées, la norme garantit l'homogénéité et la sécurité de l'équipement utilisé dans ce domaine critique. De plus, la fréquence des tests de constance lors de leur nécessité est également établie, permettant une surveillance continue de la performance de l'équipement. L'approche non-invasive des méthodes de test, ainsi que le recours à du matériel d'essai approprié, permet aux départements d'imagerie de garantir des résultats fiables sans nuire à l'intégrité d'un processus d'installation déjà sensible. En intégrant cette norme avec les critères d'acceptabilité inclus dans la norme IEC 61223-3-2 ou un protocole équivalent pour la mammographie 2D, l'IEC 61223-3-6:2020 montre également sa pertinence dans l'ensemble du paysage de l'imagerie mammaire. En conclusion, le cadre rigoureux établi par IEC 61223-3-6:2020 pour l'équipement de rayons X mammographique en mode de tomosynthèse constitue un atout majeur pour les professionnels de la santé, leur permettant de maintenir un haut niveau de qualité d'imagerie tout en respectant les exigences de sécurité et de conformité.

Die Norm IEC 61223-3-6:2020 stellt einen entscheidenden Standard für die Bewertung und routinemäßige Prüfung von MAMMOGRAPHISCHEN RÖNTGENGERÄTEN im Betrieb der MAMMOGRAPHISCHEN TOMOSYNTHESE dar. Ihr Anwendungsbereich konzentriert sich auf die Bildqualität und die Strahlendosis, die in diesem speziellen Betriebsmodus erreicht werden müssen. Durch die klare Definition der akzeptablen Kriterien und der erforderlichen Prüfmethoden gewährleistet die Norm eine umfassende Kontrolle und Verbesserung der diagnostischen Präzision in der Brustkrebsfrüherkennung. Ein wesentlicher Vorteil dieser Norm ist die Detailliertheit der Parameter, die zur Beurteilung der MAMMOGRAPHISCHEN TOMOSYNTHESE herangezogen werden. Die Norm beschreibt genau, welche Größen gemessen werden müssen und welche Toleranzen einzuhalten sind. Diese klare Struktur erleichtert die Implementierung von Qualitätskontrollmaßnahmen in der Praxis und schützt Patienten vor unnötiger Strahlenexposition. Die Verwendung nicht-invasiver Messmethoden, die in dieser Norm beschrieben sind, unterstreicht die Relevanz von IEC 61223-3-6:2020 für den klinischen Alltag. Diese Methoden ermöglichen eine einfache und effektive Prüfung während oder nach der Installation der Geräte, was häufige und zuverlässige Tests fördert. Die Möglichkeit, die Baseline-Werte für die nachfolgenden KONSTANTE PRÜFUNGEN festzulegen, ermöglicht eine fortlaufende Überwachung der Geräteleistung, was insbesondere in einem so sensiblen Bereich wie der Mammographie von großer Bedeutung ist. Die in der Norm festgelegten Frequenzen für die KONSTANTE PRÜFUNG sind ebenfalls von zentraler Bedeutung. Sie stellen sicher, dass während des gesamten Lebenszyklus des MAMMOGRAPHISCHEN RÖNTGENGERÄTS eine kontinuierliche Qualitätsbewertung erfolgt. Dies trägt nicht nur zur Verbesserung der Bildqualität bei, sondern auch zur Sicherheit der Patienten, indem sichergestellt wird, dass die Geräte dauerhaft den festgelegten akzeptablen Kriterien entsprechen. Zusammenfassend bietet die IEC 61223-3-6:2020 eine solide Grundlage für die Akzeptanz- und Konstanzprüfungen von MAMMOGRAPHISCHEN RÖNTGENGERÄTEN im TOMOSYNTHESE-Betrieb. Ihre strengen Anforderungen und klaren Richtlinien fördern eine hochqualitative medizinische Bildgebung und tragen zur Effektivität in der Brustkrebsdiagnostik bei.

IEC 61223-3-6:2020は、乳房X線装置が乳房トモシンセシス動作モードで使用される際の性能評価と定常性テストに関する標準です。この標準は、画像品質と放射線量に関する受け入れ基準を定義しており、医療現場における乳がん検診の精度を保証する重要な役割を果たしています。 この標準の強みは、MAMMOGRAPHIC TOMOSYNTHESIS動作モードに特化した性能指標を明確に示している点です。特に、画像品質と放射線量に関する必須パラメータを定義し、それに基づく測定値が規定された許容範囲に適合するかどうかを評価するための手法も提供しています。この厳格な評価フレームワークは、医療機関が高い品質の診断画像を得るために必要不可欠です。 また、非侵襲的測定を基にした方法論を採用しているため、インストール中またはその後に適切なテスト機器を用いて実施できる点も大きな利点です。このアプローチは、医療従事者の負担を軽減し、より迅速かつ正確な受け入れテストの実施を可能にします。さらに、受け入れテストの結果が期待値に適合する場合には、今後の定常性テストの基準値が確立されるため、持続的な品質管理が実現されます。 IEC 61223-3-6:2020は、医療画像診断部門における乳房X線装置の性能に関する標準の中でも特に関連性が高く、トモシンセシスモードの進化に伴うニーズに応えています。この標準の導入により、医療機関は患者に対してより高い安全性と信頼性のある検査を提供できるようになるでしょう。

IEC 61223-3-6:2020 provides a comprehensive framework for the evaluation and routine testing of mammographic X-ray equipment specifically designed for mammographic tomosynthesis. This standard is particularly critical in ensuring that such equipment maintains high image quality while effectively managing radiation dose, reflecting its strength in enhancing diagnostic reliability and patient safety. The scope of IEC 61223-3-6:2020 is clearly delineated, focusing exclusively on the performance of mammographic X-ray equipment in mammographic tomosynthesis modes, while intentionally excluding operations involving 2D images and other forms of tomographic imaging that fall outside this specialty. This specificity ensures that practitioners have targeted guidelines directly applicable to mammographic tomosynthesis, reinforcing the standard's relevance in modern imaging departments. One of the notable strengths of IEC 61223-3-6:2020 lies in its detailed definition of essential parameters that establish the acceptability criteria related to image quality and dose. By identifying these parameters, the standard enables medical imaging departments to implement precise measures for evaluating their equipment, ensuring adherence to established tolerances. The incorporation of non-invasive testing methods further enhances the practicality of compliance assessments, making it easier for facilities to implement these standards consistently during equipment installation and routine evaluations. The framework also provides a clear methodology for constancy tests, setting forth the frequency of these assessments when required and establishing a protocol for setting baseline values based on the results of acceptance tests. This ongoing approach to performance monitoring underlines the enduring commitment to equipment reliability and patient welfare, as higher compliance levels are prioritized in testing procedures, thereby enhancing overall safety and image quality over time. In conclusion, IEC 61223-3-6:2020 stands out as a crucial document for ensuring that mammographic X-ray equipment operates effectively within mammographic tomosynthesis, setting a robust standard for image quality and dose management that aligns with broader compliance protocols in medical imaging.