Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)
Call 575.556.6265Advanced Screening for Dense Breasts
Annual mammograms are the best way to catch breast cancer early, but not all breasts are the same. Dense breast tissue can mask the appearance of tumors, making it more difficult for mammography to detect cancer.
If you are one of the 40% of women with dense breast tissue, your provider may recommend automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) for additional screening and added peace of mind.
What is breast density?
Breast density is determined by the radiologist who reads your mammogram and classifies the density into one of four categories. Your provider will tell you if you have dense breasts based on your mammogram’s classification on the density scale.
What is ABUS, or automated breast ultrasound?
Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) is a non-invasive ultrasound examination, which produces sharp, three-dimensional images of the breast. Unlike traditional mammography, ABUS technology is not affected by breast density, and as a secondary screening examination, it can see through dense tissue. Clinical evidence demonstrates that supplementing mammography with ABUS for women with dense breast tissue can substantially increase breast cancer detection.
An ABUS screening requires a physician order. Ask your doctor if an ABUS screening would benefit you. Need a primary care provider? Find one here.
Additional ABUS and Breast Density Resources
- What you need to know about breast density
- Breast density pocket card (English)
- Breast density pocket card (Spanish)
- GE Invenia ABUS brochure (English)
- GE Invenia ABUS brochure (Spanish)
Located at the Memorial Women's Imaging Center
Memorial HealthPlex and Women's Imaging Center
2735 E. Northrise Drive
Las Cruces, NM 88011