USMD Imaging Center for Breast Health

Screenings are simple “breast checkups.” You should have one every year after you turn 40. But get screened earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer.

A diagnostic exam may be needed if:

• You have any symptoms, such as a breast lump or nipple discharge
• A regular screening shows something unusual

State-of-the-art system captures multiple images of the breast from several angles. Images are read by a fellowship-trained breast radiologist.

What it’s like: The exam involves a mild amount of pressure. The entire exam only takes about 10 minutes.

Breast density can cause clouding of mammography images. But ABVS or 3D ultrasound is designed to “see” through dense tissue. The USMD Imaging Center for Breast Health is one of the first breast centers in the DFW Metroplex to offer this exciting new screening.

What it’s like: You’ll have ultrasound lotion applied to your skin. You’ll feel gentle pressure from the scanner. The entire exam only takes about 15 minutes.

A breast ultrasound is a painless way to gather more information without radiation. A technologist holds a scanner against the skin, and the scanner creates sound waves. Then, a computer converts the sound waves into images on a screen. This helps the radiologist learn if more tests are needed.

Stereotactic biopsy is a way to remove a tissue sample. A radiologist uses X-ray images to find the tissue. He or she will numb your skin with an anesthetic, then use a needle to take a small sample. You won’t need stitches, and will feel little discomfort. The procedure takes about an hour. You’ll get results in 3–5 days.