What To Expect During An Automated Breast Ultrasound

Automated breast ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure used along with mammography to test for breast cancer. Such a technology is used to determine cancer in women with thick breast tissue. During the procedure, a water-filled pad is placed over the breast. Further, a technician examines while the patient is lying on a table for an ABUS exam. In order to facilitate the transmission of sound waves between the transducer and the breast tissue, this pad serves as a coupling medium. If you are thinking of getting Breast biopsies, we have got you covered. This article highlights everything you must expect during an automated breast ultrasound. Here we go!

What happens during an automated breast ultrasound? 

1. Preparation

Doctors may ask the patient to take off clothes up to their waist. Further, they change into a gown before the treatment begins. If you are pregnant or nursing, it is important to let your technician know about it. Additionally, if you have breast implants, inform them also.

2. Positioning

With one arm elevated above the head on the side being examined, the patient lies on their back on the examination table. To enhance skin-transducer contact, the technician applies a gel to the breast.

3. Placement of the Transducer

The technician applies a transducer to the breast. further, it transmits and receives high-frequency sound waves. The transducer takes pictures from different perspectives as it advances in a methodical manner across the breast.

4. Image Acquisition

Sound waves are transmitted into the breast tissue by the moving transducer. The way that these sound waves reverberate varies according to the tissue type. The transducer picks up the echoes. further, transforms them into digital pictures that are shown in real time on a monitor.

5. Data Interpretation

After the pictures are taken, a radiologist analyzes the data to look for anomalies in the breast tissue such as:

• Lumps
• Cysts
• Regions with more blood flow

In cases when mammography may not be as useful for women with dense breasts, ABUS can offer comprehensive images of the breast tissue.

6. Follow-ups

Based on your test findings, some other tests are conducted. If any abnormalities are detected, future diagnostic evaluation is necessary. These include:

• Diagnostic mammogram
• Ultrasound-guided biopsy
• MRI

Wrapping up

When with dense breast tissue or who are at a high risk of developing breast cancer, ABUS is an invaluable tool for screening. By offering extra information that could help with early detection and better results, it enhances mammography. If you are going for this procedure, ensure you choose an experienced expert.