Ultrasound

When mammograms show abnormalities, physicians may order an ultrasound for additional evaluation. This painless imaging technique uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of suspicious masses.

Ultrasound Guided Needle Biopsy
In some cases, doctors may require biopsies to determine whether masses are malignant or benign. Technicians at the Breast Care Center at Good Shepherd Hospital can perform highly accurate, minimally invasive ultrasound-guided needle biopsies without surgery or radiation exposure from x-rays.

Positioning an ultrasound probe over the site of the mass, radiologists can see exactly where to obtain tissue specimens. The biopsy is performed with a local anesthetic and causes little or no discomfort. It takes about an hour, and results are usually available within a few days.