Breast ultrasound
A breast ultrasound complements a mammogram and makes it possible to qualify the nature of a lesion observed in order to confirm a diagnosis. It also makes it possible to observe certain breast structures that a mammogram can’t capture.
In this page
Preparing for the ExaminationBreast ultrasound is most often used for:
- Determining the nature (liquid or solid) of masses felt during palpation or of an image qualified as abnormal (uncertain) in a mammogram.
- Replacing a mammogram for women who are breast-feeding or of child-bearing age (under 35 years old). In those cases, a mammogram is done only at the request of the radiologist.
- Replacing a mammogram when it is contraindicated during pregnancy
- Visually guiding a physician when taking a tissue sample during a breast biopsy.
Preparing for the Examination
No preparation is required before a breast ultrasound. However, we will ask you to avoid using body lotion and perfume, so as not to alter the quality of the images.
A medical prescription is required to perform this examination. The cost of this examination is covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) at Imagix when prescribed by a physician.*
*Members of the College des Médecins du Québec (CMQ) registered in the Quebec Physicians Directory
