Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
You have been referred for a breast ultrasound. An ultrasound scan is an examination that uses sound waves to take pictures of the part of the body being examined. It does not involve X-rays.
The study will be performed either by a Radiologist (doctor specialising in imaging) or advanced Practice Radiographer who specialises in breast imaging.
Sometimes, depending on the results of the ultrasound you may need a further procedure such as a cyst drainage or a breast biopsy.
This information tells you about the procedure, what is involved, and what the possible risks are.
Before your appointment
Please let us know if you are taking any medication to thin your blood such as aspirin or anti-coagulants, (e.g., Warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban or clopidogrel) or, if you are have any clotting problems.
If you have any known allergies, such as local anaesthetic or dressings.
If you would like another member of staff to be present, to act as a chaperone, during your examination then please let us know when booking in at the reception desk. If you do not request a chaperone, then we will assume that we have your consent to perform the examination without one.
There is no special preparation needed and you can eat and drink as usual.
Please also let us know if:
- you have limited mobility and will require assistance to get on and off a couch.
- you will need an interpreter. We are not able to use family members or friends to interpret.
In order to make your appointment run more smoothly, please let us know if any of these apply, in advance, by calling our bookings team (contact details are displayed on the main Radiology page).
On Arrival
Please arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time.
On arrival in the department, you should check in at the reception desk. Bring this letter with you and be prepared to confirm your details with the receptionist. Please allow time to do this prior to your appointment time and bear in mind that the reception may be busy. Once you have been booked in you will be directed to the waiting area. Please be aware that patients are attending for different examinations and patients who arrive after you may be called before you.
What to wear
It is helpful to wear a separate top, and skirt or trousers.
Giving my consent (permission)
We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment. The Radiologist / Advanced Practitioner will ask you if you are happy for the procedure to go ahead - this is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the procedure or are undecided, please tell the Radiologist.
It is your decision, and you can change your mind at any time.
The Procedure
An Ultrasound scan of the breast is performed to identify the location of any abnormality. A series of images will be obtained.
If you require any further procedures such as a cyst drainage or a breast biopsy the Radiologist will explain the procedure and proceed as necessary.
After the Examination
You will be free to resume your daily activities.
Risks
You may experience some discomfort after the procedure if there a test requiring a needle to be inserted. This is usually mild and can be helped with over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol if required.
The Results
The Radiologist will interpret your images and report back to the referring Clinician. If a needle test has been carried out, you may require a follow-up appointment which will arranged in 10-14 days to allow time for analysis of the biopsy samples (if performed).
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Radiology service.
About this information
Service:
Radiology
Reference:
PILS-MAMM.11
Approval date:
11 September 2023
Review date:
8 January 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.