Breast Ultrasound

What is breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive, painless, and safe imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the internal structures of the breast. This method does not use harmful ionizing radiation, making it safe to use during pregnancy. Although ultrasound is not considered the gold standard for early breast cancer detection, it is frequently used as a diagnostic supplement to mammography. It is recommended to have a preventive breast ultrasound once a year after the age of 25, and earlier if there are palpable lumps or a positive family history of breast cancer.

What is breast ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive, painless, and safe imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the internal structures of the breast. The ultrasound exam, also known as sonography or echography, relies on an ultrasonic probe that is placed on the skin. When they encounter a different type of tissue, one part of the waves is reflected back into the probe, and the rest passes through the tissue until it encounters another structure. The reflected waves are captured by the probe and displayed on a computer as a two-dimensional black-and-white image with varying shades depending on the tissue’s ability to reflect the waves. In this way, it is possible to differentiate benign from potentially malignant formations because their ultrasound characteristics are different.

When is breast ultrasound performed?

Monthly self-exams of the breasts are recommended starting at age 20, andideally in the first part of the menstrual cycle (from the end of menstruation to day 10). A breast ultrasound should be performed as a preventive measure annually after age of 25, andideally at least once before you are 30 .

Besides preventive screening, breast ultrasound is also performed when there are specific indications or concerns about potential pathological conditions in the breast, such as:

• Abnormalities detected during self-examination (palpable lumps, discharge from one or both breasts, redness of the breast)
• Changes detected in the breast by mammography
• High breast tissue density that complicates mammography imaging
• Pregnancy, where mammography is contraindicated due to radiation use
• Assessment of the position and condition of implants in the breasts after augmentation or reconstruction
• Diagnostic interventions on the breast (cytological puncture, biopsy)
• Regular follow-up as recommended by a physician after breast cancer recovery

In women who have an increased risk of breast cancer due to a positive family history, breast ultrasound is performed according to the doctor’s recommendation, usually before the 25 years of age.

What can breast ultrasound show?

While breast ultrasound is not the gold standard for early breast cancer detection, it is a useful and important method for evaluating breast abnormalities. It can:

• Differentiate between fluid-filled cysts (usually benign) and solid, potentially malignant masses
• Detect palpable masses that are not visible on mammography
• Identify masses obscured by dense breast tissue on mammographic images
• Diagnose inflammatory conditions of the breast and abscesses
• Visualize possible rupture, swelling, or seroma (fluid accumulation) after implant surgery

How is breast ultrasound performed?

The examination is performed by a physician while the patient is positioned on an examination table, either lying down or on their side. A water-based gel is applied to the ultrasound probe to ensure clear and unobstructed transmission of sound waves from the probe to the tissue and back. The probe is then moved over the breast and axilla (underarm) to check the lymph nodes. Moving the probe is painless, but it may be slightly uncomfortable if there are sensitive areas. Sometimes, changing positions or raising the arm above the head may be necessary. Images are displayed in real-time on a computer, and the physician will provide a report. Images are displayed in real-time on a computer, and the physician provides a report and verbal instructions after the examination. The entire procedure typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Precautions

Breast ultrasound is a completely safe method that does not use harmful ionizing radiation.

Preparation for breast ultrasound

• Breast ultrasound is best performed during the first part of the menstrual cycle (up to day 10).
• Before the examination, remove any jewelry that may interfere with the procedure and undress from the waist up.
• It is recommended to bring any previous relevant medical records for comparison with new findings, if available.
• No special preparation related to eating or drinking is required.

Recovery from breast ultrasound

No recovery time is needed after the examination, and you can immediately return to your usual activities.

Cost of breast ultrasound

You can check the price of the examination in the current price list. For more information, call +385 1 5005 970 or write to the email: info@sinteza.hr.

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