Advanced And Diagnostic Breast Ultrasounds
While mammograms are statistically the best way to diagnose breast cancer in its early stages, they don’t detect all cancers.
In some cases, the expert physicians at Maiden Lane Medical in New York City use breast ultrasounds to identify and evaluate breast lesions or other abnormal tissue that might not show up clearly on a mammogram.
Call the office or schedule a consultation online today if you have any concerns about your breast health.
What Is A Breast Ultrasound?
Ultrasounds are non-invasive imaging studies that use high-frequency sound waves and echoes to create images of your internal organs and tissues. For example, when you have a breast ultrasound, your tech uses a transducer wand to send the sound waves into your breast tissue and collect the echos. The transducer sends the echoes to a computer that translates them into images.
Why Would I Need A Diagnostic Breast Ultrasound?
Your doctor may suggest a diagnostic breast ultrasound if a routine mammogram has abnormal results. While mammograms are the most effective way to diagnose breast cancer during the early stages of the disease, a breast ultrasound can provide more information about abnormal tissue. In some cases, diagnostic breast ultrasounds can identify tumors that don’t show up on mammograms.
Why Would I Need A Breast Ultrasound After A Diagnostic Mammogram?
Many women need follow-up testing after a mammogram. Common causes of abnormal mammogram results include dense breast tissue, calcified tissue, or a cyst.
Diagnostic ultrasounds are just one of several tests your doctor has at their disposal to collect more information about your breast tissue. For example, a diagnostic breast ultrasound can reveal if the abnormal tissue is solid or fluid.
What Should I Expect During A Breast Ultrasound?
After a diagnostic mammogram, a breast ultrasound will be a walk in the park. First, you will need to undress your upper body and put on an open-fronted gown.
Then, the tech applies a gel to your skin, which helps the transducer wand glide smoothly, helping to create clear images. The gel may be cold, and you might feel some pressure from the transducer, but it isn’t painful.
What Follow-Up Tests Will My Doctor Order?
If your ultrasound confirms abnormal breast tissue, your doctor may order an ultrasound-guided breast biopsy. During this test, they take a sample of cells for lab testing.
Depending on what your doctor and radiologist find during your breast ultrasounds, breast MRI, and mammograms, they may surgically remove the abnormal tissue in its entirety.
What Might The Tests Find?
Diagnostic breast ultrasounds can often determine the difference between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses. In addition, some ultrasounds can show your blood as it moves through your body and whether or not it’s feeding the abnormal tissue. The results of your diagnostic ultrasound and other follow-up tests can determine if you need more invasive testing or surgery.
What If It’s Breast Cancer?
If you have breast cancer, you and your doctor agree on a treatment plan to address your specific needs. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
If you need expert breast cancer screening or diagnostic services in New York City, call Maiden Lane Medical. The practice offers convenient in-office mammography and has an experienced radiologist on staff to read your results soon after your tests.
Kenneth Fox, MD
Board Certified Radiologist
Expert Medical Services
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