Have an Unusual Lump? Receive a Breast Ultrasound in Williamsport, PA

A breast ultrasound is a non-invasive, diagnostic imaging tool used to determine if there is a cyst or solid mass inside the breast. It allows for quick and easy visualization of breast tissue.

During an ultrasound of the breast, the ultrasonographer places a thin coating of lubricating jelly over the area to be imaged to improve conduction of the sound waves. A hand-held device called a transducer directs the sound waves through the skin toward specific tissues. As the sound waves are reflected back from the tissues within the breast, the patterns formed by the waves create a two-dimensional picture of the breast on a computer.

Unlike mammography, breast ultrasound does not use radiation. If you have a breast lump and need an answer, Find a Provider at UPMC Susquehanna to make appointment for a breast ultrasound in Williamsport, PA.

Whole Breast Ultrasound

When it comes to breast tissue, an increased tissue density can make it difficult to perform accurate examinations and receive exact mammography results. Women with high breast density often fly under the radar when cancerous signs are present. Ultrasound testing makes the task a lot easier and vastly more reliable.

After a general mammogram, you will receive a report rating your breast density on a scale from 1- 4. If your results fall in the range of 3 or 4, whole breast ultrasound may be recommended.

How to Prepare for a Breast Ultrasound

Talking to your primary care physician about self-breast examination and routine mammograms is very important. Always talk to your physician if you have a concern or question. The staff at UPMC Susquehanna's Breast Health Center will work closely with your physician to coordinate the best care for you.

Call (570) 326-8200 to schedule an appointment for a breast ultrasound; in many cases your physician office will take care of this for you. The clerk will ask you or your referring physician office for the following:

• What is the reason for the ultrasound?
• Have you had previous breast imaging, and if so, where?
• Who is the healthcare provider ordering the ultrasound?

It is very important to bring mammography or ultrasound films from previous tests with you, or have them sent to our center prior to your appointment. To have them sent, you may need to contact the facility where you had your tests taken. They may require you to sign an authorization form allowing the films to be sent to our center.

Please plan to arrive a few minutes before your scheduled appointment to complete registration. Bring the written order from your healthcare provider and a referral if it is required by your insurance company.

UPMC Susquehanna performs breast ultrasound in Williamsport, PA, and the surrounding areas as part of our Breast Health services.