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In ultrasonography, or ultrasound, high-frequency sound waves,
inaudible to the human ear, are transmitted through the breast. The echoes are
recorded and transformed into video or photographic images.
Ultrasound images help in the diagnosis of a wide range of
diseases and conditions, including breast cancer. The idea for ultrasonography
came from sonar technology, which makes use of sound waves to detect underwater
objects.
Ultrasound may be used alone or with other diagnostic procedures.
How is ultrasound used on the breasts?
Ultrasound may be used to determine whether a breast
lump is a cyst (containing fluid) or a solid mass. Fluid is typically withdrawn
from all cysts by a needle and syringe (a process called aspiration). If clear
fluid is removed and the mass completely disappears, no further treatment or
evaluation is needed.
Ultrasound also can be used to precisely locate the position
of a known tumor that cannot be felt in order to guide the physician during a
biopsy procedure. Ultrasound helps confirm the needle placement during a biopsy,
using sound waves reflected off breast tissue so that the exact location of breast
tissue is biopsied.
Are there any side effects?
Studies have shown that ultrasound is not hazardous. There
are no harmful side effects. In addition, ultrasound does not use radiation, as
x-ray tests do.
What happens during the test?
There is no special preparation for the ultrasound
test.
- You will be asked to change into a hospital gown. You may
consider wearing a two-piece outfit on the day of the test so that you only need
to remove your top.
- You will lie on a padded examining table during the test.
- A small amount of water-soluble gel is applied to the skin
over the area to be examined. The gel does not harm your skin or stain your
clothes.
- A probe, which looks like a little paddle, is gently applied
against the skin.
- You may be asked to hold your breath briefly several times.
- The ultrasound test takes about 10 minutes to complete.
After the test, the gel will be wiped off your skin. Your
physician will discuss the test results with you.
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