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Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger (reply to momof3bbs)

Hi momof3bbs,

Basically they will be looking for more information. They will most likely take additional images, like you had with the mammogram, to get a closer look at the area they said was shaded. They may also do an ultrasound exam as that will provide a different type of image than traditional x-rays or digital images provide. Ultrasound isn't painful. It's another type of imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to look at organs and structure in the body.

During an ultrasound test, you lie on a table. A special technician or doctor moves a device called a transducer over part of your body. The transducer sends out sound waves, which bounce off the tissues inside your body. The transducer also captures the waves that bounce back. The ultrasound machine creates images from the sound waves.

Between the first and second set of imaging tests, it could easily take the two hours they stated, or even longer. Since you are being called back in they may even have a system in place for a breast radiologist to read the results remotely while the technician is doing the ultrasound. This speeds up the diagnostic process.

Be sure to ask if they have the records from your last mammogram for comparison, and be sure to ask them when you can expect results, and if you can wait for results if they are trying to get you same day results. Depending on what they find, they may suggest you have a biopsy. Many imaging centers also do biopsies.

If the results there are inconclusive you may have even more imaging tests ahead of you. I don't mean to scare you, just trying to prepare you.

I'm glad you're getting in quickly but also know that this may be making you more apprehensive. As I said before, it can help to bring along a friend, and it can also help to plan a bit of a wind down afterwards, like maybe some kind of special coffee or treat or something at a relaxing place where you can talk with your friend before heading home.

Take care, I wish you the best.

Pat

September 30, 2014 - 6:51pm

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