Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound procedure is an exam in which high-frequency sound waves are directed through the breast to provide an image of the internal structures. No radiation or x-rays are necessary.

A breast ultrasound is performed to obtain more information about a palpable mass in your breast, or about a mass discovered on your mammogram film. Ultrasound is able to visualize the mass in many different angles and assists in identifying the mass as cystic (fluid-filled) or solid. This information enables your physician to make a decision regarding how to best identify the mass.

Before the exam, you may eat normally. You will be asked to undress from the waist up, so you may wish to wear a two-piece outfit.

During your breast ultrasound, you will lie on an exam table. For your comfort and privacy, and in order to eliminate glare from the equipment monitors, the room is dimly lit during the exam. A female registered sonographer will move a hand-held device called a transducer over your skin after it has been coated with gel. The gel is used to help the sound waves to travel more easily and thus, produce a clearer image. Pictures of your breast will appear on a video screen and several images and measurements will be recorded. Exam length is approximately 30 minutes.

After the examination, the images and data compiled during your test are shown to the radiologist. The radiologist will interpret the exam, and you will receive a verbal report while you are in the department. A written report will also be sent to your physician’s office.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions about this procedure, please discuss them with your physician or contact The Breast Center at (320) 229-4919 or (800) 835-6652.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

CentraCare Health Plaza - please check in at Woodlands Entrance