Ko'olau Radiology - Breast Imaging: Ultrasound

Breast Imaging

Ultrasound

X-ray / Digital Fluoroscopy

Ultrasound

Breast Imaging


	Mammograms

	Ultrasound

	Special Procedures

CT Scans

Coronary Calcium Scoring

What is a breast ultrasound?
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 complementary 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 which may be individual or multiple and are only rarely related to breast cancer.

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 your physician’s examination of the breast.

What will happen during the breast ultrasound exam?
During 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 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 these findings. The exam takes approximately a half-hour.

How will I learn the results?
The radiologist may discuss the results with you or refer you to your primary care doctor.

Preparation:
There is no preparation required for a breast ultrasound exam.