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Ultrasonography is the technique of using sound waves to create an image of part of the body without the use of radiation. It does not duplicate the information found on a mammogram but is used as a complimentary evaluation. It is particularly useful in distinguishing fluids from solids, and is therefore often used to detect cysts within the breast (cysts are small fluid-filled structures).
Most breast ultrasound exams are performed to answer a specific question which may have been raised regarding a particular area of your breast. Such questions might arise as the result of a mammogram showing an abnormality, or by examining the breast.
Preparation
There is no preparation for a breast ultrasound exam.
During the ExamDuring the exam, you lie on a stretcher and a small amount of gel is placed on the part of the breast to be examined. A small device called a "transducer" is then used to carefully examine the area. Several images are usually taken to document the findings. When the technologist has finished the examination, the images are shown to the radiologist who may also perform a brief ultrasound scan to confirm the findings. The exam takes approximately a half hour.
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