Breast Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of tissue inside the breast; it does not use X-ray or radiation. Breast Ultrasound may be used when a lump is felt by you or your provider, or as a follow-up to an area imaged on your mammogram or MRI.

Before the Exam

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. For the best experience please properly prepare for your appointment:

• You may eat and drink as normal. No special diet is required.
• You will be asked to undress from the waist up; consider wearing a two-piece outfit.
• If you had a breast ultrasound performed outside the St. Cloud area, you may be asked to provide these images. For some exams, comparing your previous and current study is an important part of your exam.
• Do not bring children with you to your appointment. For their safety children are not allowed to accompany you in the exam room. Staff are unable to monitor children.

During the Exam

• A registered sonographer who specializes in Breast Ultrasound will perform your exam.
• You will be asked to lie on your back, on an exam table, with one arm rested above your head.
• Warm gel will be placed on the breast. The gel is needed for sound waves to travel and create images.
• A small device, called a transducer, will be moved over your skin to take images of tissue inside your breast.
• The images will be reviewed with a Radiologist and results will be discussed with you.
• Your appointment will take up to one hour.

After the Exam

• You may go back to your usual activities right away.
• A radiologist is a doctor who reads your images and prepares a report for your providers.
• If you have MyChart you will typically receive a notification within 24-48 hours that your results are available for you to review.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to make and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your provider.