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Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)

Get a breast ultrasound at Touchstone Medical Imaging

An automated breast ultrasound (also known as ABUS) examination is not considered a screening test, but is a non-invasive investigative technology used for taking a closer look at areas of your breast that your doctor still has questions about after doing a mammogram and clinical breast exam.

How It Works

An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that are transmitted through breast tissue from a hand-held unit called a transducer. These sound waves bounce off breast tissues. The “echoes” created as a result are then recorded by a computer that makes an image of the breast tissue and displays it on a monitor. No radiation is used, and very little pressure is required.

Find A Touchstone Imaging center offering Breast Ultrasound appointments near you!

Reasons for Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)

An ultrasound test may be useful if your mammogram shows an indistinct mass, or if a lump can be easily felt by the patient or during a clinical breast exam. It is used to decide if the lump is filled with fluid or is a solid mass. It may also be ordered if you have dense breast tissue, and a mammogram does not show enough detail. A Breast Ultrasound does not replace the need for mammography. 

Mammogram images are still needed to evaluate the entire breast.

Patient Reviews

Our patients say it best. Touchstone Imaging provides welcoming, comforting outpatient facilities with friendly and helpful staff.

Front office staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Technician was absolutely wonderful. Extremely friendly, kept me informed during the entire process of what she was doing and what would be happening next.
Tina J.
I had to take my 11-year-old in for an MRI of his knee. It was one of the best experiences we’ve had at a medical office in a long time. Everyone was friendly, informative, and professional.
Jodi E.
I had to get a brain MRI back in November. The check in process was fast and friendly. I didn’t have to wait long before being taken to the back to get prepped for my procedure. The staff made me feel at ease and the environment is very calming and tranquil. The MRI tech checked on me constantly during the procedure and kept me informed as to which part of the exam we are completing. I can’t remember her name but she was very nice and pleasant. If I ever have to get another diagnostic test, I will be returning here.
Brian V.
Everyone was excellent! I was acknowledged and welcomed when I entered the building. Front staff were professional and courteous when discussing paperwork. Friendly smiles. My technician impressed me as being highly trained in her field. Her personal and professional skills are awesome. Enjoyed something I wasn’t looking forward to.
Evangelina B.
Friendly staff. I called and got an appointment that fit my schedule. Quick check in. Relatively short wait time compared to a lot of medical facilities. The technician was friendly, gave clear instructions and made me feel comfortable. I was out in less than an hour.
Wendy B.
Great place, people, and atmosphere was awesome. The guy that brought me to the back had me laughing the whole way. They checked in on me a few times in the MRI machine to make sure I was doing ok and it made me feel more comfortable. I would recommend this place to anyone needing an MRI done.
Jon C.
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Choose accurate imaging and convenient service with Touchstone

Touchstone Medical Imaging is in-network with 99% of insurance plans to provide you Breast Ultrasound appointments at up to 60% less than the cost of hospital-based imaging. Many locations offer extended and weekend hours, with same day and next day appointment options, to meet your busy schedule. With compassionate care and easy to access locations, our technologists will guide you seamlessly through your appointment.

Breast Ultrasound Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a breast ultrasound?

After checking in, you will be escorted to a private dressing room where you will undress from your waist up and change into a gown that opens in the front. Your exam will be performed by a mammography-certified, female technologist who will ask you questions to understand your history and/or any problems you may have. After entering the exam room and laying down on the table, a small handheld unit called a transducer is gently passed over the area to be examined. The sound waves will produce pictures on the monitor.

How should I prepare for a breast ultrasound?

You will be asked to undress from the waist up and to wear a gown during the procedure. For your convenience and comfort, please wear two separate clothing pieces, a top and a bottom, to the exam that day.

If you have had a previous mammogram at a facility other than Touchstone Medical Imaging, please let us know so that we may obtain these films. It is extremely important for the radiologist to have your prior films for comparison, as it enhances the doctor’s ability to detect a subtle change or small abnormality on your current mammogram. Availability of prior films at your appointment also decreases the length of time it takes for you to get your results.

What is Henda’s law?

Texas state legislation known as Henda’s Law requires mammography facilities to notify you and your health care provider if your results indicate dense breast tissue. As of September 2021, insurance regulations changed, which could cover the cost of your supplementary breast ultrasound exam. 

Should I be concerned about being referred for a breast ultrasound for dense breast tissue?

If your mammogram demonstrates that you have dense breast tissue, which could hide abnormalities, and you have other risk factors for breast cancer that have been identified, you might benefit from supplemental screening tests that may be suggested by your ordering physician. 

Dense breast tissue, in and of itself, is a relatively common condition. Therefore, this information is not provided to cause undue concern, but rather to raise your awareness and to promote discussion with your physician regarding the presence of other risk factors, in addition to dense breast tissue. Breast Ultrasound screening are typically recommended for asymptomatic women with Class C or Class D breast density.

A report of your mammography results will be sent to you and your physician. You should contact your physician if you have any questions or concerns regarding this report.

Where does Touchstone Medical Imaging perform breast ultrasound scans?

Breast ultrasound exams are performed at various Texas locations to provide insights into breast health in accordance with the Henda Law. Please use our location finder to find a center near you that performs the breast ultrasound.

*Some or all of the health care providers performing services at Touchstone Imaging are independent contractors and are not Touchstone’s agents or employees. Independent contractors are responsible for their own actions, and Touchstone shall not be liable for the acts or omissions of any such independent contractors.