Breast Ultrasound

The importance of ultrasound as an adjunct procedure to mammography is well documented. The normal anatomy, physiology, and pathologic conditions evaluated by ultrasound will be the basis of this educational activity. The increased utilization of breast ultrasound requires clinicians to integrate the fundamentals of sonography and mammography to enhance the value of breast ultrasound. The course combines classroom learning with practical hands-on scanning to maximize the learning experience. Ultrasound-guided interventional procedures and examination of breast implants will be discussed. Case studies will be utilized to correlate the mammogram with the breast ultrasound, and to recognize breast ultrasound artifacts.

Objectives

At the completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

• Describe the role of breast ultrasound as an adjunct to mammography in the evaluation of breast disease
• Identify and display appropriate normal anatomy and orientation in the ultrasound field of view
• Describe basic scanning protocols
• Correlate areas of suspicion on the ultrasound and mammogram
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the equipment knobology
• Choose the correct transducer for the ultrasound examination
• Successfully complete a basic breast ultrasound examination following correct patient preparation and procedure protocols
• Identify breast ultrasound artifacts and methods utilized to reduce their occurrence
• Be able to identify sources and research reference materials for additional information on breast ultrasound

Course Topics

Day 1

• Why breast ultrasound? advantages/disadvantages
• History of breast ultrasound
• Physics
• Positioning
• Knobology/ ergonomics
• Breast anatomy & physiology
• Benign vs. malignant
• Levels of suspicion
• Scanning technique
• Hands on scan lab

Day 2

• Ultrasound/ mammogram correlation
• Pathology
• Implants
• Invasive procedures
• Imaging post-surgical breast
• Complementary imaging
• Future applications
• Hand on scan lab
• Mammography positioning

Target Audience

Physicians seeking entry level information in breast ultrasound. Sonographers, mammographers or other health professionals learning breast ultrasound or cross training.

CME Credits

• “The Advanced Health Education Center is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. “
• “The Advanced Health Education Center designates this educational activity for a maximum of 16 hours AMA PRA Category I™. Physician should claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.”
• “The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers allows 13.5 hours CE Credit.”

Faculty: Deborah Borst, RT(R)(M), BS, RDMS, (OB/GYN, AB, BR, NE), RVT(VT)

Recommended Textbook

The Practice of Breast Ultrasound by Madjar

Fee includes lecture, scanning laboratory instruction with models, and supplies for the classroom and laboratory. Students are responsible for textbooks, housing, and transportation.