Purpose The aim is to investigate the effect of lower radiation output on quality of reconstructed images using a grid-less acquisition-software based scatter correction algorithm versus conventional grid-mode in digital mammography. Methods 115 patient-equivalent images (CIRS mod. 020BR3D phantom) with breast thickness ranging from 10 to 60 mm was obtained with 2D (with grid) and PRIME (Progressive Reconstruction Intelligently Minimizing Exposure) algorithm on Siemens Mammomat Inspiration PRIME. Since PRIME algorithm directly produces images in ‘for presentation’ mode, than the quality assessment was not investigated through raw images derived parameters such SDNR and CNR, but applying score statistical analysis to the images having different type and size lesions at various depth within tissue equivalent and heterogeneous background. Statistical analysis on AGD values was derived from DICOM Header informations, as well as type of reconstruction algorithm and breast thickness. Scores for detectability of simulated lesions was recorded and analyzed using visual grading characteristic (VGC) analysis and ordinal logistic regression. Non parametric tests was performed between scores to assess their equivalence. Wilcoxon rank sum tests and multiple linear regression was also carried out on AGD. Results AGD shows significant differences (p Conclusions PRIME algorithm permits significant dose reduction without image quality loss in comparison to conventional grid-used acquisition mode in order to clinical dose optimization. Download : Download high-res image (166KB) Download : Download full-size image