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Available at these locations in Alberta:

Grande Prairie

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Breast Ultrasound

A diagnostic breast ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that employs high frequency sound waves to image and examine the internal structures of the breast. This exam is useful in the deeper investigation of symptoms such as pain, tenderness or lumps in the breast tissue.

This procedure is often performed to more accurately assess lumps and/or anomalies that may have been detected during an MRI, mammogram or physical exam and is recommended for patients with a high breast density.

This examination may include an automated breast ultrasound, which employs cutting edge imaging technology to capture 3D images of the entire breast, targeting specific areas to ensure reproducible images. This advanced technique, which allows for a more accurate visual of the breast from a range of angles, is ideal for use on patients with dense breast tissue, i.e. Volpara scores of C and D.

PATIENT INFORMATION AND PREPARATION

Special Instructions

  • Please take all prescription medications as instructed
  • Your skin should be kept clean and free of deodorant, body oils, moisturizers and powders, especially if you are having a mammography the same day
  • Your clothing should be lightweight, comfortable and two piece for easy access to the skin of the chest and breasts
  • Please arrive at least 15 minutes in advance

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR EXAM

  • You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up, for access to your chest and breast are, you will be given a robe for comfort
  • You will be asked to lie on a tilt-in-space examination table
  • Your breast area will need to be visible to the practitioner during this exam, as he or she will need to scan the entire breast and chest area, including the axilla or armpitA warm, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic gel will be applied to the skin of your chest and breasts
  • A wand-like transducer will be moved over the lubricated surface of the breasts in order to obtain a comprehensive set of images
  • Some pressure may be applied with the wand, in order to provide better imagery of the internal structures
  • You will now be allowed to alight from the examination table, get changed and return to your seat
  • The radiologist will review the captured images against previous ultrasounds or mammograms
  • After review of the images, the radiologist may now choose to sit with you in the exam room, in order to discuss your results

WHEN TO EXPECT THE RESULTS OF YOUR EXAM

Our radiologists will interpret your information and aim to forward the results to your doctor by the end of the next working day.

WHAT YOU’LL PAY FOR THIS PROCEDURE

This exam is covered under the Alberta Health Care Plan but please note, it is not currently  offered at our Saskatchewan clinic.