What is a Breast Ultrasound?
A breast ultrasound is a diagnostic exam using high frequency sound waves to study the breast. Using ultrasound, the Technologist can visualize any abnormality seen on your mammogram. Ultrasound is safe and does not involve the use of any injections or radiation.
How is the examination performed?
A Registered Ultrasound Technologist will perform your examination and she can answer any questions you may have. A breast ultrasound is done by placing a small amount of warm ultrasound gel on your breast and by pressing a small probe or transducer over the area to be imaged.
Who is a candidate for a Breast Ultrasound?
A breast ultrasound can sometimes be ordered for patients that have had abnormal findings on their mammogram or if you feel a lump or have pain.
Will I need to prepare for the exam?
No, there isn’t any preparation for this exam. If you have had a mammogram at another facility, please bring those images with you.
What will I experience?
You will be asked to lie down on your back or side. The Technologist will place some warm gel on you and begin pressing the transducer or probe into your breast. A series of images will be taken that last about 30 minutes. Following your images, the Technologist will give you a towel to wipe off the gel and you are done.
What happens next?
Your images will be analyzed by the Technologist and sent to the Radiologist’s computer for interpretation.
The Radiologist, a State of New Mexico licensed and board certified Physician in radiology interpretation, will read your images. A report will be recorded and transcribed then sent to your Physician who will explain the results to you.