This thesis offers an accessible guide to biomedical phase-contrast imaging with over 20
radiographic illustrations. It focuses on research to improve radiography and particularly
mammography applications by using a novel X-ray imaging modality that exploits the wave-nature
of X-rays rather than just their absorption in tissue. Further it explores a broad range of
potential applications - from the assessment of breast cancer and the evaluation of
microcalcification clusters to the examination of renal stones. X-ray imaging is an
indispensable tool in modern medical diagnostics and ranges from simple radiography
applications to advanced CT imaging protocols. This novel phase-contrast approach has the
potential to deliver significantly improved diagnostic information also and especially in
cases where mammography is used for screening purposes. The thesis is based on several studies
conducted by the author - working in close interdisciplinary cooperation with medical doctors
at two university clinics in Munich - and successfully demonstrates this diagnostic potential
in pre-clinical experiments.
