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Breast ultrasonography   

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Ultrasonography of the breast

Definition:

Ultrasonic waves are used to visualize the breast tissue.

How the Test is Performed

Your health care provider explains the test then asks you to remove your clothing from the waist up. You lie on your back on the examining table. A water-soluble gel is placed on the transducer (a hand-held device that directs the high-frequency sound waves to the breast tissue) and on the breast. The transducer is then moved over the tissue to create a picture. The test is then repeated for the other breast if both breasts are to be scanned.

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.

Why the Test is Performed

Breast ultrasonography may be used to supplement mammography or as an independent examination. Ultrasonography may be used in the following types of women to detect and classify breast lesions:

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

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