Breast ultrasound

Definition of Breast ultrasound

Breast ultrasound is the use of ultrasonic sound waves (sounds that cannot be heard by humans) to produce an image of breast tissue.

Alternative Names for Breast ultrasound

Ultrasonography of the breast

How the test is performed

You will be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a medical gown during the test. During the test, you will lie on your back on the examining table.

A water-soluble gel is placed on the breast and a hand-held device (transducer) that directs the sound waves to the breast tissue. The transducer is moved over the surface of the breast to create a picture.

The test is then repeated for the other breast, if necessary.

How to prepare for the test

Since you need to remove your clothing from the waist up, it may be helpful to wear a two-piece outfit. On the day of the test, do not use any lotions or powders on your breasts.

How the test will feel

The number of people involved in the test will be limited to protect your privacy.

You will be asked to raise your arms above your head and turn to the left or right as needed.

There is no discomfort from the ultrasound device.

Why the test is performed

Breast ultrasonography may be used with mammography or by itself.

Ultrasonography may be used to detect and classify breast lesions in the following types of women:

• Women with dense breasts
• Women with fibrocystic breast disease
• Women with a lesion that cannot be well classified with mammography alone
• Young women with masses
• Pregnant women with masses
• Women with silicon breast implants
• Women who refuse exposure to x-rays (mammography)

Normal Values

Normally, the breast tissue will appear uniform and without masses.

What abnormal results mean

Distinctive patterns may indicate:

• Cysts
• Benign lesions
• Malignant lesions (breast cancer)

What the risks are

There are no risks associated with breast ultrasonography.

Special considerations

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References for Breast ultrasound