Breast Ultrasound
Guilford Radiology and West Haven Radiology are proud to be one of very few practices certified by the American College of Radiology in Breast Ultrasound.
What is Breast Ultrasound?
Ultrasound imaging, sometimes referred to as sonography, is a noninvasive medical procedure used to capture images in real time using sound waves, not radiation. Ultrasounds show the structure and movement of organs and blood flowing through blood vessels. Breast ultrasound is used to help diagnose breast abnormalities seen on mammography or felt during an examination. It is typically ordered following a mammogram, or for a lump or focal pain. If a woman is diagnosed with dense breast tissue during a mammogram, a breast ultrasound is advised, as an ultrasound is more effective at screening dense breast tissue.
There are two types of breast ultrasounds: Screening and Diagnostic. A screening breast ultrasound is just as the name implies. It is routine testing done when a woman has been diagnosed with dense breast tissue.
Diagnostic breast ultrasound is typically ordered for a woman who has felt a lump or a change in her breast during monthly self breast exam or during a physician's examination. A diagnostic ultrasound may also be performed if a radiologist determines additional information is needed following a screening ultrasound. We understand that this call may cause anxiety, but do not be alarmed. The need for additional imaging is fairly common and we will discuss the results with you the day of your exam.
Please note that a recent change in Connecticut law now requires more communication about mammographic breast density to patients to help with the early detection of breast cancer. S.B. 458 requires all mammography reports given to a patient on and after October 1, 2009 to include information about breast density. Click here for more information on this law.
How do I prepare for the exam?
Most ultrasound exams do not require any preparation prior to the exam. Wear comfortable clothing around the area to be scanned. You may also be asked to wear a gown. If you have previously had a breast ultrasound at another imaging facility, please contact that facility to obtain those images prior to your exam so that we can compare them.
What happens during the test?
Our technologist will take a brief medical history. You will be asked to lie down on the scanning table. The ultrasound technician (sonographer) will place a clear gel on the area of the body to be imaged. The sonographer or radiologist then presses the transducer against the skin and sweeps it back and forth over the area of interest. The transducer is a small hand-held device that resembles a microphone, attached to an ultrasound machine by a cord. After the exam, the gel is wiped off and you may you may resume normal activities. Ultrasounds typically take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the exam performed.
Your Results
Your doctor(s) will receive a full detailed written report from our highly trained radiologists within one day. Our goal is to provide you with the highest level of customer service and image quality in a caring and supportive environment.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns about your procedure, feel free to call us at 203-453-5123 or contact us online.
