Ultrasonography or ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure which is used to diagnose and identify the normal tissues and any abnormalities in the same with the help of sound waves. Ultrasound is a safe procedure as it does not use any ionizing radiation unlike X-ray and CT scan. A breast ultrasound is a specialized diagnostic procedure which is used to examine the normal and diseased breast tissues.
What is the principle of ultrasound ?
Ultrasound works on the principle of conversion of high energy sound waves into echo which is later converted into high quality images.
How does an ultrasound examination work ?
An ultrasound equipment has a probe or a transducer which is connected to an output or a monitor. The transducer or a probe sends high frequency sound waves to the part of the body which needs to be scanned, in a breast ultrasound the probe is moved over the breast tissue and the sound waves which echo back are received by the transducer and are converted into images on to the monitor.
When is a breast ultrasound advised ?
A breast ultrasound can be done as a part of the routine examination of the breast in women. If your physician or you feel that there is a change in the shape, size or consistency of your breast or if there are any lumps or swelling which are clinically and physically identified, he/she might advise for a breast ultrasound. Breast ultrasound is also preferred as an adjunct to a mammogram, or in women who cannot get a mammogram or a CT scan done are advised for a breast ultrasound.
How do you prepare for a breast ultrasound ?
Not much preparation is needed for a breast ultrasound, you will be asked to wear a hospital gown and lie down on an examination take on your back or sideways. The breast ultrasound is usually performed after a detailed physical and clinical examination is done by your treating doctor.
What happens during a breast ultrasound ?
You will be made to lie down on an examination table, the breast to be examination is exposed and the transducer is made to glide on the breast surface after the application of a gel (the gel helps in smooth gliding of the transducer on the body surface). Once the images are captured on the monitor the gel is wiped off from the body surface and you are allowed to go home.
Who reports a breast ultrasound ?
A breast ultrasound is usually performed by a radiologist who specializes in ultrasonography and the reporting is either done immediately or as per the hospital/healthcare center’s policy.
What are the risks and limitations of a breast ultrasound ?
Breast ultrasound is the safest procedure in women who cannot be exposed to ionizing radiations. The procedure has no side effects, you might feel a little pressure on your skin because of the transducer. The limitation of a breast ultrasound is that, it is difficult to identify deep seated swellings, tumors or any calcifications with it, which are better imaged with a mammogram, CT scan or an MRI scan.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
