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Screening Breast Ultrasound or Automated Breast Ultrasound

Screening Breast Ultrasound (SBU) or Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) uses sound waves instead of X-ray technology to scan the entire breast. SBU/ABUS can help detect some breast cancers not visible on a mammogram, especially if the breast tissue is dense. SBU/ABUS does not replace 3D mammography; rather, it’s a supplemental imaging procedure that provides additional information to evaluate breast health further and can be another option for select patients.

Doctor Referral Required

Schedule an Appointment

FAQ

Who needs a Screening Breast Ultrasound or Automated Breast Ultrasound?

Patients who meet all three of the following criteria are good candidates for SBU/ABUS:

Negative mammogram within the past six months
Dense breast tissue identified on mammogram (category C or D)
One or more of these risk factors:
- Personal history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Family history of breast cancer
- History of breast biopsy showing atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or other atypical pathology

In addition, a patient may opt for SBU/ABUS if she is a candidate for breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) but is unable to have an MRI for financial or other reasons, including claustrophobia, medical problems with contrast materials, or metal/devices that will interfere with MRI. Please note that patients who have had a recent breast MRI or are eligible to have one in the near future do not need to also have an SBU/ABUS.

What should I expect?

How do I prepare?

Charlotte Radiology will ask for a physician’s order/referral for SBU/ABUS.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
If you’ve had prior mammograms, breast ultrasounds or breast MRIs at a facility other than Charlotte Radiology, you will be asked to provide contact information for the center so we can obtain these records before your scheduled appointment. Having prior records helps our Radiologists to identify any changes over time. If you would like Charlotte Radiology to request these on your behalf, please fill out our medical records release form one month prior to your scheduled appointment (it can take up to three weeks to receive records from an out of state provider).
Please be ready to discuss medical history at your appointment, including prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
Wear two-piece clothing so that you only have to remove your top and bra for the exam.

When will I get the results?

Which locations offer Screening Breast Ultrasound or Automated Breast Ultrasound?

What about billing and/or insurance coverage?

Charlotte Radiology will ask for a physician’s order to meet insurance requirements in case additional tests are needed after the SBU/ABUS. This is because insurance coverage for SBU/ABUS is still evolving. Charlotte Radiology will bill insurance for supplemental screening, and some insurance plans will cover the exams. If not, you will be responsible for the balance. Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. Payment may be required at the time of service. Please call 980-233-5053 if you have questions about pricing, insurance coverage, and/or billing before your scheduled appointment.

HSA and FSA funds may be used as payment. Please note that if any additional screening is required beyond the SBU/ABUS, these procedures are generally covered by insurance.

Screening Breast Ultrasound or Automated Breast Ultrasound

FAQ

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