Attempted improvement in mammography by inducing a phase transition in silicone gel.

Abstract

An attempt was made to achieve a temporary alteration of the molecular structure (a "phase transition") of silicone gel, the end result of which would be to improve mammography. It was hoped that a phase transition of this type would result in either a reduction in gel volume or increased radiopenetration. Unfortunately, an electrically induced phase transition of silicone gel was not seen. In fact, a temporarily altered molecular orientation (phase transition) was not even possible under the extremes of voltage confirming the fact that silicone is extremely inert.