Breast Ultrasound

Breast Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the internal structure of the breast.  It is used to help diagnose breast abnormalities detected by a physical examination or a mammogram and can help determine if the abnormality is solid (such as a non-cancerous mass or a cancerous tumor) or fluid-filled (such as a benign cyst).

Ultrasound imaging can help detect lesions in women with dense breasts or a lesion that cannot be interpreted adequately through mammography alone.  It may also be used for pregnant women or others who should not be exposed the the x-rays used in a mammogram.

For most women 30 years and older, a mammogram will be used together with ultrasound.  For women under age 30, ultrasound alone is often sufficient to determine if a suspicious area needs a biopsy or not.

Ultrasound imaging uses no ionizing radiation and may be repeated as often as necessary.