Ultrasound is a very safe and accurate investigative tool used to assess many organs in the body, including the breasts. Ultrasound uses harmless high frequency inaudible sound waves to obtain images. Ultrasound waves are not dangerous or irritating to adults or children.
Overview
The ultrasound waves are transmitted and collected via a hand held probe which is moved gently over the breast. You will not feel any pain or discomfort. Comprehensive Medical Imaging has the most advanced ultrasound equipment available in Australia. Our highly developed ultrasound imaging systems provide unprecedented image quality for diagnosis of breast disorders. Our sonographers and specialist radiologists are highly trained and experienced in all facets of breast imaging.
Preparing
Please bring your referral (letter from your doctor) and your Medicare and/or Pension Health care card with you to your appointment. It is important to bring all previous films relating to the region being imaged. You’ll need to be on time to ensure there is enough time available to perform the procedure. There is no specific preparation for the examination. You will be asked to change into a gown.
Scanning
The ultrasound waves are transmitted and collected via a hand held probe which is moved over the part of the body being investigated. You will not feel any pain or discomfort. Your procedure will usually take between 20 and 30 minutes. A highly trained sonographer will conduct the study and a specialist may also participate in the examination.
Results
We understand that some patients are anxious about having tests performed. If you do have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our staff. They can also be provided on CD or electronic transfer to your referring practitioner if requested. Comprehensive Medical Imaging strongly advises that you return to your referring doctor in order for your doctor to discuss your radiology report with you.
FAQs
Will I need a mammogram if I have had an ultrasound?
It is possible that you may require a mammogram. This is best discussed with your doctor.
What if a lump is found?
Depending on the results of your test your doctor may ask for a biopsy. This can be performed using either ultrasound or mammogram. Your referring doctor and the radiologist will decide on the most appropriate imaging technique to target the area of interest in the breast. At Comprehensive Medical Imaging, our radiologists and technical staff are very experienced in breast biopsy, with the procedure generally very well tolerated. For more information on biopsies please see Image Guided Biopsy.
Will the sonographer performing my scan tell me what’s wrong?
It is the sonographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are of high quality for the radiologist (specialist doctor) to interpret them.
