Ultrasound Breast

A breast ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce images of the internal structures of the breast. It's used to evaluate breast lumps and other abnormalities detected during a physical exam or mammography.

During a breast ultrasound, a gel will be applied to your breast, and a handheld device called a transducer is moved over the breast area. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off breast tissue and are captured to produce images on a computer screen.

A breast ultrasound is generally not painful. However, if you have tender breasts or the examination requires pressing on a sensitive lump, you may experience some discomfort.

No, you do not need to fast before a breast ultrasound. There are no specific dietary restrictions before this test.

Yes, a breast ultrasound can help identify if a lump is a solid mass (which could potentially be cancerous) or a fluid-filled cyst. However, it cannot confirm cancer. A biopsy is necessary to definitively diagnose breast cancer.

A breast ultrasound typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the area to be examined.

Yes, breast ultrasound is safe during pregnancy. It does not use radiation and poses no risk to the mother or the unborn baby.

While breast ultrasound is an effective tool for evaluating breast lumps, it doesn't replace mammography for breast cancer screening. It is often used in conjunction with mammography for a more comprehensive evaluation, especially in women with dense breasts.

If an abnormality is detected during the ultrasound, your doctor may recommend further testing such as a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken from the area of concern and examined under a microscope.

If your ultrasound results are abnormal, it's important to follow up with your doctor, who may recommend additional tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

The frequency of breast ultrasounds depends on various factors like your age, personal and family history of breast cancer, and any underlying health conditions. It's best to discuss this with your doctor.

A radiologist, a doctor trained to interpret imaging studies, will review the ultrasound images and provide a detailed report to your doctor.

Breast ultrasound is highly accurate in distinguishing between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses. However, it may not identify all cancers, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Therefore, it is often used alongside other screening methods such as mammography.

Breast ultrasound is an indispensable tool in the diagnosis and management of breast abnormalities. By providing clear images of the breast tissue, it plays a crucial role in the early detection of breast cancer, thereby increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival. If you have been recommended a breast ultrasound, feel assured that it is a safe, quick, and highly informative procedure that contributes significantly to maintaining your breast health.