Breast Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the body. A transducer and gel are used to send sound waves into the body. These bounce off of different structures in different ways. When they bounce back to the transducer, they are sent to a computer to produce images. Ultrasound uses no radiation and is painless.

Ultrasound is used in the breast to evaluate certain types of abnormalities that are felt on physical exam or seen on a mammogram. It is a useful adjunct to mammography, helping to determine if a lump or mass is an innocent fluid-filled cyst or a solid abnormality which may require further investigation. However, it cannot be used as a replacement for a mammogram since calcifications (often the earliest sign of a breast cancer), do not usually show up well on ultrasound. While there are some research projects currently being conducted to evaluate ultrasound as a secondary screening test for masses in certain situations, this is not currently recommended by the American College of Radiology and is not offered by Northside Hospital / Northside Radiology Associates, P.C.