The Ultrasound examination of the breast is a unique imaging test for medical reasons. This test will use sound waves to detect any problems in the breast. It helps the healthcare specialist to monitor the blood flow to the area. The ultrasound for the breast region is generally recommended when changes have been observed in a mammogram test. Often these changes might not show accurately in the mammogram.
How is the ultrasound breast test conducted?
The healthcare specialist will move a device that looks like a wand for the ultrasound breast test. This device is known as a transducer. It reflects images of the breast and needs to be moved above the skin. The sound waves are intensely high in pitch that you will not hear them. This transducer receives the sound waves that are bounced back. These images are later changed into pictures that depict the inside condition of the breasts.
The healthcare specialist might use another instrument called the Doppler probe for the transducer. This probe allows the healthcare specialist to hear these sound waves that the transducer emits. The specialist will be able to hear the speed of the blood flowing through the blood vessel along with its flow direction. If there is no sound or the sound is very faint, there is a blockage in the blood flow.
Is this ultrasound safe for a pregnant woman?
Ultrasound is completely safe for a pregnant woman because it will not use radiation. It is very safe for those allergic to the use of contrast dye as it is not used in the test. Learn more about mammograms and ultrasounds before the treatment to be prepared
Why do you need an ultrasound?
The ultrasound for the breast is recommended to identify a physical examination problem or a mammogram. The breast might have a cyst filled up with fluid, or it might be a solid tumor. It is reported to-
- when the woman’s breast tissue is very dense, and changes cannot be detected with a mammogram.
- A woman is pregnant as the test does not involve the use of radiation. It is safe for the fetus.
- The woman is younger than 25 years of age.
For getting ready for the test, your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you in detail. You should ask the provider about any questions or concerns you might have. You will be asked to sign a consent form giving permission to the healthcare provider for conducting the test. Make sure you read this form very carefully and do not hesitate to ask the healthcare provider any questions for clarification before the final date of this test. You do not have to stop eating food or drink water before this test.
The ultrasound breast test might also be recommended by the healthcare provider to inspect the lymph nodes in the body, help in the guidance of a needle during the biopsy, and for the removal of fluid from any cyst located in the breast. Again, there might be other reasons where your healthcare specialist recommends you to take this test.