Breast Ultrasound – Everything You Need to Know

Breast ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive diagnostic method that uses sound waves to visualize the structure of breast tissue. This method is crucial in detecting various changes in the breast, including cysts, tumors, and other abnormalities. The examination is quick, painless, and very reliable, and is often used as a supplement to mammography or as an independent method for younger women with dense breast tissue.

What is breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that reflect off breast tissue and create an image on the monitor. This procedure allows doctors to closely examine the structure of the breast and identify potential problems. Ultrasound is especially useful for distinguishing fluid-filled cysts from solid masses that may be suspicious. Additionally, ultrasound can detect changes not visible on mammography, particularly in women with dense breast tissue.

When is breast ultrasound necessary?

Breast ultrasound is recommended in the following situations:

1. Regular preventive screenings: Especially for women under 40, as they have denser breast tissue which can make it harder to detect abnormalities through mammography. Regular screenings can help in early detection of breast cancer.
2. Detection of changes: If changes such as lumps, sensitivity, or discharge from the nipple are observed, ultrasound can assist in accurate diagnosis.
3. Monitoring changes: Regular check-ups for individuals already diagnosed with cysts or benign tumors allow monitoring of the condition and timely responses to changes.
4. After abnormal findings: If mammography or clinical breast examination shows suspicious changes, ultrasound can provide additional information needed for diagnosis.

Preparation for breast ultrasound

Preparation for breast ultrasound is simple and does not require special measures. However, there are some steps you can take to ensure the most accurate results:

1. Wear comfortable clothing: It is recommended to wear two-piece clothing so you can easily remove the upper part of your body. This tip can help you feel more comfortable during the examination.
2. Avoid using lotions and deodorants: On the day of the examination, do not use lotions, creams, or deodorants in the breast area as they can affect the quality of the ultrasound images. This is important because some products can create artifacts on the images, making their interpretation more difficult.
3. Inform your doctor of all symptoms: Before the examination, be sure to inform your doctor of any changes or symptoms you have noticed. This information can help the doctor focus on specific areas during the examination.

How is breast ultrasound performed?

The examination lasts about 15-30 minutes and includes the following steps:

1. Positioning: You will lie on your back with your arms raised above your head. This position allows the best access to the entire surface of the breast.
2. Application of gel: A special gel is applied to the breast to allow better transmission of sound waves.
3. Using the probe: The doctor will use a probe to move over the breast, creating images of the internal structure of the tissue on the monitor. The probe emits sound waves that reflect off the breast tissue and create images.
4. Image analysis: The doctor analyzes the images in real time and may request additional images if necessary. If abnormalities are detected, the doctor may recommend further tests or a biopsy.

What to expect after the examination?

After a breast ultrasound, you can immediately return to your daily activities. The examination results are usually available immediately after the examination, and if any abnormalities are detected, the doctor will refer you for further testing or biopsy to establish an accurate diagnosis. It is important to note that most detected changes are not malignant, but further investigation is necessary to rule out breast cancer.

Advantages of breast ultrasound

Breast ultrasound has several advantages that make it an excellent diagnostic tool:

1. No radiation: Unlike mammography, ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation, making it safe for frequent use.
2. Non-invasive and painless: The examination is completely painless and does not require any cuts or needles.
3. Detailed imaging: Ultrasound can provide very detailed images of breast tissue, helping doctors make accurate diagnoses.
4. Accessibility: Ultrasound is widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to some other diagnostic methods.

Who should have a breast ultrasound?

All women, regardless of age, should regularly perform breast self-exams and undergo clinical exams as recommended by their doctor. However, certain groups of women may particularly benefit from regular breast ultrasounds:

1. Women with dense breast tissue: Mammography may be less effective in women with dense breast tissue; therefore, ultrasound can provide additional information.
2. Women at high risk for breast cancer: Women with a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2) should consider regular breast ultrasound screenings.
3. Women with previous benign changes: Women who have already had benign changes in the breast should regularly undergo ultrasound to monitor any changes.

Conclusion

Breast ultrasound is a critical tool in the early detection and monitoring of changes in breast tissue. Regular screenings can save lives by detecting breast cancer in its early stages. Preparation for the examination is simple, and the procedure itself is quick and painless. If you notice any changes or have a family history of breast cancer, contact us and schedule a breast ultrasound. Timely diagnosis and treatment are key to successful outcomes.

Quality healthcare is the foundation of our approach, and your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Regular check-ups and attention to breast health are essential for a long and healthy life, so do not delay and take care of your health today.

For these reasons, Priska Med Polyclinic frequently holds promotional campaigns for breast ultrasound, and you can find all information through our social media profiles or by direct contact –

📞 Call at 099/444-3344

📧 Email at poliklinika@priska-med.com

🔗 Directly through the contact form