Measuring centimeters from the nipple (CMFN) is the preferred method for describing the distance from the nipple with ultrasound. When scanning, the technologist measures how far the lesion is from the nipple in centimeters. This measurement can be obtained by using a ruler or knowing the width of your transducer face. Some manufacturers have centimeter lines marked on the probe end to better assist in estimating this.

The current trend favors using CMFN measurements over using zones, as the distance from the nipple in centimeters tends to vary less than the distances from the chest wall and breast periphery, especially with changes from compression or patient positioning.
For a video tutorial and more details on measuring CMFN accurately, click, ‘Mastery Academy’ below.