![]() ![]() When Would I Need a Breast Ultrasound?īreast ultrasounds are often performed as a follow-up to the discovery of lumps during a physical exam or a mammogram. A cluster of microcalcifications may indicate that cancer is present. As the sound waves are reflected back from the tissues within the breast, the patterns formed by the waves create a two-dimensional image of the breast on a computer, which can provide an image of a mass within the breast.Īn ultrasound of the breast is not used for routine breast cancer screenings because it does not consistently detect certain early signs of cancer such as microcalcifications (tiny deposits of calcium in the breast that cannot be felt but can be seen on a conventional mammogram). A hand-held device, called a transducer, directs sound waves through the skin toward specific tissues. What Should I Expect When I Have a Breast Ultrasound?ĭuring a breast ultrasound examination, the clinician spreads a thin coat of lubricating jelly over the area of the breast to improve the conduction of the sound waves. It is the preferred imaging technology for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have implants, or are under the age of 25. Ultrasound has the advantage of producing images without need of ionizing radiation. For example, ultrasound can be used to further the diagnosis of a breast abnormality, by distinguishing between solid growths and fluid-filled cysts. ![]() Ultrasound imaging of the breast is sometimes used in conjunction with mammography to evaluate areas of concern. Their echoes produce a picture called a sonogram. If possible, wear a comfortable two piece outfit that will allow you to wear a gown from the waist up.A breast ultrasound, also called sonography, is an imaging technique in which high-frequency sound waves are bounced off tissues and internal organs (in this case, the breast).If possible, refraining from caffeine intake in most patients will decrease hormonal stimulation of the glandular tissue resulting in a better definable diagnosis in many cases.Try to schedule your procedure for the week after your period when your breasts are less tender and less stimulated by hormones.The images will be reviewed by the reading radiologist and discussed with the patient prior to their departure from the office. There is no compression or radiation involved with this exam. The radiologist may or may not scan the patient themselves. The exam is performed by a specially trained ultrasonographer. Warm jelly is applied to the breast in the specific area of concern either based on a physical exam or abnormal mammogram/MRI finding. The routine exam typically takes 15-20 minutes. Ultrasound may be used as a guidance modality in performing minimally invasive breast biopsy. It may also be helpful following an MRI if an abnormality needs to be biopsied. Ultrasound is also used for masses, distortion, or unequal breast tissue (asymmetries) seen on mammography. The most common indication for breast ultrasound is for a palpable finding, meaning something that is found by the physician or patient on a physical exam. What are the indications for Breast Ultrasound? Breast Ultrasound is used as an adjunct to mammography in the same fashion that MRI complements mammography. Ultrasound uses sound waves similar to those used during pregnancy to look at the fetus. ![]()
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