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Ultrasound of Small Parts |
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evaluate masses in women
under 35 |
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a needle for several interventional
procedures |
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Is an imaging technique
for diagnosing breast disease. |
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Ultrasound of Small Parts - Breast |
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Definition
Breast ultrasound (or sonography) is an imaging technique for diagnosing
breast disease. It uses harmless, high frequency sound waves to form
an image (sonogram). The sound waves pass through the breast and bounce
back or echo from various tissues to form a picture of the internal
structures. It is not invasive and involves no radiation.
Purpose
Breast ultrasound may be used in several ways. Its most common
application is to investigate a specific area of the breast where
a problem is suspected. A palpable lump and/or an abnormality discovered
on a x ray (mammogram) can be further evaluated by ultrasound. It
is especially helpful in distinguishing between a fluid filled cyst
and a solid mass. A structure which has certain characteristics
that prove it to be a simple cyst can be confidently diagnosed as
benign. Ultrasound diagnosis of solid masses is less straightforward,
but in many cases normal tissue can be differentiated from possibly
malignant tissue with ultrasound.
Breast ultrasound is often the first study performed to evaluate
masses in women under 35 whose mammograms can be difficult to interpret.
The lack of radiation used with ultrasound makes it ideal for studying
breast abnormalities in women who are pregnant. Assessing breast
implants for leakage or rupture is another way ultrasound is used.
Breast inflammation, where pockets of infection or abscesses may
form, can be diagnosed and monitored by ultrasound.
Breast ultrasound is employed to observe and guide a needle for
several interventional procedures. These include cyst aspiration,
fine needle aspiration, large core needle biopsy, and needle localization
before surgical breast biopsy.
Description
The patient removes clothing from the waist up, and puts on a hospital
gown, open in the front. She lies on her back or side on an examining
table. A gel which enhances sound transmission is spread over the
area to be examined. The technologist then places a transducer,
an instrument about the size of an electric shaver, against the
skin. The images from reflected sound waves appear on a monitor
screen.
A good ultrasound study is difficult to obtain if a patient is
unable to remain quietly in one position. Obesity may hinder clear
viewing of internal structures and the accuracy of an ultrasound
study is highly dependent on the skill of the person performing
the examination. The images recorded vary with the angle and pressure
of the transducer and the equipment settings. The examination may
take from 30-45 minutes. Most insurance plans cover the cost of
an ultrasound examination.
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