Automated breast ultrasound now available at CoxHealth

Nearly 40 percent of women have dense breast tissue, which can make it difficult in some cases to ensure that all suspicious spots are identified with a mammogram alone. To provide an additional layer of support, CoxHealth has added Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS), which is specifically designed for women with dense breast tissue.

“Both dense tissue and masses appear white, so a suspicious lump may be hidden in the dense tissue in normal mammograms,” says Susan Smith, manager of the Breast Care Clinic. “Dense breast is one of the strongest common risk factors for developing breast cancer, and more than 70% of breast cancers are found in dense breasts, so this scan is going to be very helpful.”

ABUS is conducted in connection with a mammogram. If ABUS is recommended, patients will be referred by their physician or radiologist after a mammogram is performed.

At this time, ABUS will be offered at CoxHealth’s Breast Care Clinic in Springfield. If individuals have questions about this scan, they may call the clinic at 417-269-LADY.