Inter-phantom variability in digital mammography: implications for quality control

Inter-phantom variability exceeded intra-phantom variability across all image quality metrics of digital mammography. Subtle details showed higher total variability compared to more distinct features. Modulation transfer function metrics exhibited comparable intra- and inter-phantom variability, highlighting positioning sensitivity. Inter-phantom variability contributes 84% to total variability, impacting imaging system comparisons. Using the same phantom ensures reliability in imaging system performance evaluations.