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Stanford Health Care

Risks & Side Effects

Our Approach to Screening Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (SAWBU)

Screening Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (SAWBU) is a noninvasive way of finding small cancers that cannot be seen on mammograms alone. Featuring new automated technology to make breast cancer screening more accurate, SAWBU uses sound waves to create 3D pictures of breast tissue. It is an optional test for women with dense breast tissue who would like to supplement their routine mammography screenings. Our radiologists are internationally renowned specialists in breast imaging for screening and diagnosis, and in performing image-guided breast procedures.
 

Download SAWBU - Information for Patients & Families (PDF)

What We Offer You for Screening Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (SAWBU)

  • Preventive screening and thorough evaluations for your health, wellness, and peace of mind.
  • A nationally recognized Center of Excellence for breast imaging, as designated by the American College of Radiology. Our radiologists are specially trained in mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and interventional procedures for breast cancer detection and diagnosis.
  • State-of-the-art breast imaging equipment, including technology that uses sound waves, not radiation, to create 3D pictures of breast tissue.
  • Multidisciplinary approach that brings together experts from radiology, oncology, and women’s health to provide comprehensive treatment options, should you need treatment, personalized to each patient’s needs.

What is Screening Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound?

Risks and Side Effects of Screening Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (SAWBU)

SAWBU is a noninvasive way to safely, accurately, and efficiently examine your breasts.

Unlike some other types of imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, SAWBU uses no radiation. Instead, it uses high-frequency sound waves that bounce off surfaces in the body, making “echoes” recorded on photo or video.

The SAWBU procedure is generally painless, although some patients may experience discomfort when the handpiece is placed on the breast. Please talk to your physician to learn more and decide if this test is right for you.

Our Clinics

Our highly trained radiology specialists, nurses, and technicians use leading-edge Screening Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (SAWBU) technology in our state-of-the-art clinic.

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To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-723-6855