Breast imaging workup: bilateral mammography combined with breast ultrasound
Breast imaging workup (mammogram and ultrasound) in Casablanca
A breast imaging workup combines, in the same appointment, a mammogram (a low-dose X-ray of the breasts) and a breast ultrasound. The two exams complement each other, especially when the breasts are dense. It is requested both for screening and to investigate a symptom. The ultrasound, performed by the radiologist right after the mammogram images, makes it possible to look closely at an area flagged by the mammogram or by you.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Plan on 20 to 30 minutes in general for both exams.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE Senographe Pristina
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- Screening, at the frequency recommended by your doctor.
- Lump, nipple discharge or change in the skin of the breast.
- Localized, persistent pain in one breast.
- Follow-up after treatment, or a family history.
- Dense breasts, for which ultrasound usefully complements the mammogram images.
How the exam is done
In a changing room, you remove your top clothing. Standing, bare-chested, you place each breast on the machine, where it is compressed for a few seconds between two plates, from the front and then at an angle. The team checks that the images are sharp; an additional image is sometimes added to see an area better.
You then lie down: the radiologist spreads a gel and examines the breasts and armpits with a probe, then gives you initial explanations. This part is painless: the probe glides over the skin and presses only slightly harder on an area that needs a closer look. The gel wipes off easily, and you can resume your activities right after the workup.
Preparation
- On the day of the exam, avoid deodorant, talc and cream on your chest and under your arms.
- If you have periods, choose the week after your period: the breasts are less sensitive.
- Wear a separate top and bottom: you will only need to remove the top.
- Note any symptoms you have noticed and since when, to discuss them with the radiologist.
Fasting
No fasting is needed for this workup.
Contrast injection
Nothing is injected.
Contraindications and precautions
- Current or possible pregnancy: let us know before the images are taken.
- Breastfeeding or breast implants: please tell us, the images are adapted.
- Breast surgery, biopsy or scar: show the radiologist the area concerned.
- Very sensitive or painful breast: say so before the compression, which can be adjusted.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from your doctor, gynecologist or midwife
- Previous mammograms and ultrasounds, with their reports
- Report of any breast surgery or biopsy
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Why have both exams?
Mammography clearly shows fine calcifications; ultrasound distinguishes a fluid-filled cyst from a solid mass. Together, they help the radiologist reach a conclusion.
Does the compression hurt?
It can be uncomfortable, but it is brief. Tell us if the discomfort is strong: the pressure is adjusted as much as possible.
What does “ACR” mean on the report?
It is an international classification, also called BI-RADS, which summarizes the findings and guides the next steps: monitoring, a follow-up check or an additional exam.
Why bring my previous exams?
Comparison shows whether a finding is old and stable, or new, which sometimes avoids the need for a short-term follow-up.
Are the mammogram and the ultrasound done on the same day?
Yes, that is the principle of the breast imaging workup: the two exams follow one another during the same appointment, and the radiologist interprets them together.
Should this workup be done without any symptoms?
Screening is intended precisely for women who feel nothing. How often it is done depends on your age and history: your doctor will tell you when to schedule it.