Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of the breast. It is commonly used to evaluate lumps or abnormalities that have been detected during a breast exam or mammogram.

During the procedure, a gel is applied to the breast and a handheld device called a transducer is pressed against the skin. The transducer sends out high-frequency sound waves that bounce off the tissues inside the breast and are picked up by the transducer as they return. The returning sound waves are then turned into an image on a computer screen.

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive test that does not expose you to radiation. It is generally painless and only takes a few minutes to perform.

Your healthcare provider may recommend a breast ultrasound if you have a breast lump or other breast abnormality that needs to be evaluated further. It can help determine whether a breast lump is solid (such as a tumor) or fluid-filled (such as a cyst). It can also be used to guide a biopsy, which is a procedure to remove a sample of tissue for laboratory testing.

It’s important to note that breast ultrasound is not always accurate in detecting breast cancer. If your healthcare provider has concerns about your breast health, they may recommend additional testing, such as a mammogram or breast biopsy.