The patient is positioned comfortably on the exam table. Then the technologist attaches a stabilizing membrane to the ultrasound scanner and applies a coupling lotion to the breast.
The scanner is placed on the patient's breast and the technologist presses a single button to begin the scan. First, a preview scan automatically determines the patient's breast tissue signature to set the ideal ultrasound imaging parameters. This is followed by the actual image acquisition scan of the breast.
The total scan lasts for approximately 60 seconds.
The technologist follows the acquisition in real-time to ensure proper breast coverage and tissue contact. When the scan is complete, the technologist reviews the image on the monitor, confirms the nipple location on the touch screen, and then sends the images to the somo•v™ display station for the radiologist to review. Depending on the location or size of the area of interest, the transducer may be positioned for another scan.
After all relevant images are acquired, the patient exam is complete and the patient leaves the room. The acquisition process normally takes less than 15 minutes.
The somo•v™ Automated Breast Ultrasound offers several advantages:
- Repeatable performance utilizing a wide field of view transducer and standardized positioning.
- Reproducible image quality equivalent to other high end ultrasound systems.
- 3D simulated real-time interaction.
- 3D automated landmark references that updates automatically in real time during review.
- Patient convenience – supine (resting) position.
- No x-rays or ionizing radiation.
- Improved workflow.
- One button automated acquisition.
- Faster exam times.
- Standardized, repeatable images.
- Scheduling flexibility
- Complete cases may be saved and stored for later review, thereby allowing the physician to see the same image in different locations and at different times.
