Breast Ultrasounds are done at our Women’s Diagnostic Center on Northwest Avenue, Suite 101.
To schedule your ultrasound, please call: 360.647.2422.
What is Breast Ultrasound?
A breast ultrasound is a procedure that uses reflected sound waves to view and produce a picture of the internal structures of the breast. A breast ultrasound is used to determine whether a breast lump is filled with fluid, a cyst, or a solid mass. An ultrasound generally does not replace the need for a mammogram; however, it is often used to further evaluate a problem seen on a mammogram.
For a breast ultrasound, a small handheld instrument called a transducer is passed back and forth over the breast. It sends out high-pitched sound waves that are reflected back to the transducer. A detector analyzes the sound waves and converts them into a picture that is displayed on a video monitor to be recorded.
A breast ultrasound test usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Additional time may be needed if a breast exam will be done before the ultrasound or if a biopsy is also scheduled. You may be asked to wait until a radiologist has reviewed the information.
Why It Is Done?
* Evaluate a breast lump found on breast self-examination, physical examination, or mammogram, or when there is some other reason to suspect a possible abnormality
* Evaluate the breasts in younger women because their breast tissue is often more dense, and a mammogram may not show sufficient detail.
* Guide the placement of a needle or other instrument during a breast biopsy or breast surgery.
* Monitor the growth of a cyst.
* Evaluate your breasts if you have silicone breast implants or dense breasts.
* Evaluate your breast symptoms, such as pain, redness or fever.
How to Prepare
Wear a two-piece outfit so that it is easy to undress above the waist. Remove all jewelry from around your neck. Talk to your physician about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will indicate.
Results
Your results will be available for your physician within 48 hours; earlier results are available upon request.