Breast Ultrasound

What is a breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create a picture of the breast. Ultrasound is able to see through the dense breast tissue.

There is no radiation involved. Ultrasound is most often used in additional to mammography.

How is breast ultrasound used at BBDC?

Breast ultrasound can be used:

(1) to help understand a finding seen on mammography or MRI

(2) to look closely at an area in the breast that is painful or lumpy, or

(3) to screen for breast cancer in women who have dense breast tissue on a mammogram

How long does breast ultrasound take?

How long an ultrasound takes depends on why we are doing the exam. Screening ultrasound exams take approximately 15-20 minutes. Ultrasound exams performed for a breast symptom or finding seen on mammogram or MRI could take less time.

Do I have to schedule the ultrasound?

Well, Sometimes!

If you know you need an ultrasound, then it is better to schedule your ultrasound before your visit. This would be for a screening ultrasound or if you have a breast symptom, like pain or lump.

BUT if the radiology team see something on your mammogram and want to do an ultrasound, we will do the ultrasound while you wait without it being on the schedule.

Do I need an order for a breast ultrasound?

YES!

We need orders to complete any type of breast imaging exam, except for a screening mammogram.

When the radiology team adds on the ultrasound, we can get the ultrasound order after your visit.

Is breast ultrasound covered by insurance?

Well, sometimes.

The ultrasound should be covered if it is performed to work-up a finding seen on mammography, or if it is being used to evaluate a breast symptom (ie a lump or pain).

It is sometimes covered for breast cancer screening.

Main point, you should talk to your insurance company to see what your policy covers.