Supplemental Breast Imaging Gives Clinicians Critical Details

Sometimes there’s good reason to go beyond a mammogram. Two supplemental breast imaging technologies available at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN)’s breast health services centers – breast MRI and ABUS – let clinicians take a closer look at breast tissue.

Particularly in patients with dense breast tissue, mammography is limited in the detection of breast cancer. Breast MRI or screening ultrasound are studies that clinicians use in combination with mammography for the detection of breast cancer in women who do not have symptoms. The appropriate supplemental screening exam is determined based on your risk factors.

The preferred supplemental screening exam for patients with a high risk for breast cancer is breast MRI. Screening ultrasound is for women who are average risk of breast cancer with dense breast tissue or high-risk women who cannot undergo breast MRI. It is not necessary to have both supplemental screening studies.

What is dense breast tissue?

Dense breast tissue describes breasts with more fibrous or glandular tissue than fat. Increased breast density is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. On a mammogram, it can mask the disease since both dense tissue and cancer can appear white.

What is a breast MRI?

It is an imaging exam that uses a powerful magnet, radio waves and a computer to give clinicians very detailed images of the breast. This study requires intravenous contrast dye. There is no radiation involved. Common reasons for breast MRI include screening if you are high-risk and evaluating the extent of the disease if you’ve had a recent breast cancer diagnosis.

Should I do anything to prepare?

Be sure to tell the technologist if you are pregnant or breast feeding, have had an allergic reaction to the contrast dye in the past or have claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces). They also need to know if you have metal-containing objects or implanted medical devices in your body.

What happens during the test?

This test is much like a regular MRI except you’ll lie face down on a table that has openings for your breasts. The technologist will move the table into the MRI machine. They’ll perform the imaging test via computer in a neighboring room connected by a window. An IV injection of contrast material may be administered into your hand or arm to increase visibility.

When and how will I get my results?

A radiologist, specializing in breast imaging, will interpret the results and provide an explanation of findings to your referring clinician and your MyLVHN account.

What is an ABUS?

ABUS is a screening exam of the breasts that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the breast. There is no radiation involved. This test is recommended for women at average risk of breast cancer with dense breast tissue.

How do I find out if I have dense breast tissue?

Dense breast tissue can only be found through mammograms. It’s usually discovered during your first breast cancer screening. If you’re not sure but you’ve gotten mammograms in the past, ask your doctor or review reports from your previous mammograms.

What happens during the test?

Lying on your back, a technician will apply lotion before putting an ultrasound unit on your breast. In minutes, the unit will scan all four quadrants of your breast, using minimal compression. Your technician will then repeat the process on your other breast.

Will I still need to get a mammogram?

Yes. ABUS does not replace mammography in the detection of breast cancer. Mammography is the only screening exam proven to decrease breast cancer mortality.

Referrals from your clinician are required for both a breast MRI and ABUS. Check with your insurance carrier to see whether these supplemental tests are covered.

For more information go to:

Opens in new tab PA Breast Cancer Coalition’s website

Breast MRI:

Breast Health Services at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest
1240 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Suite 203, Allentown

Imaging Services–250 Cetronia Road
250 Cetronia Road, Allentown

Health & Wellness Center at Hazleton
50 Moisey Drive, Hazleton

Diagnostic Care Center–Hecktown Oaks
3780 Hecktown Road, Easton

Health Center at Bartonsville
600 Commerce Blvd., Stroudsburg

ABUS:

Breast Health Services at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest
1240 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Suite 203, Allentown

Breast Health Services at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hecktown Oaks
3794 Hecktown Road, Suite 230, Easton

Breast Health Services at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Carbon
Health Center at Carbon
2226 Blakeslee Blvd. Drive E., Lehighton

Breast Health Services at the Health Center at Bartonsville
600 Commerce Blvd., Stroudsburg

Breast Health Services at Health Center at Trexlertown
6900 Hamilton Blvd., Trexlertown