Hydrogel‐Based 3D‐Printed Anthropomorphic Breast Phantom for Emulating Mechanical and Dielectric Properties of Mammary Tissue. Applications in Microwave Imaging

This study presents a 3D‐printable anthropomorphic breast phantom designed to mimic the mechanical and dielectric properties of mammary tissues for use in microwave imaging (MI). The phantom is fabricated using hydrogels based on 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate (2‐HEA) and methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MHA) monomers, replicating the dielectric behavior of adipose/fibroglandular and cancerous tissues, respectively. Through the integration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data with advanced 3D printing, patient‐specific breast phantoms are produced that faithfully reproduce breast morphology and tumor structures. In addition, they can be used as customized training models for clinical practice. Experimental validation with the commercial MammoWave system demonstrates effective detection of dielectric anomalies corresponding to tumor‐mimicking inclusions. The phantom shows stability over the tested period, maintaining electromagnetic performance and recovering dielectric and mechanical behavior after mild rehydration, underscoring its durability and reusability. This approach offers customizable and anatomically realistic models that reproduce both the morphology and properties of tissues, providing a solid platform for the development of microwave imaging and paving the way for new opportunities in medical training and preoperative surgical planning by supporting clinicians in optimizing treatment strategies.