Breast Ultrasound: A Guide to Understanding Your Results

Breast ultrasounds are important in maintaining breast health, aiding in the early identification of irregularities and providing insight into the internal condition of breast tissue. This guide is designed to assist you in comprehending your breast ultrasound results, simplifying the technical aspects and outcomes of this significant health examination.

A breast ultrasound utilises high-frequency sound waves to create detailed visuals of the breast's internal architecture. It is frequently used to assess breast lumps or other irregularities detected during a physical examination, mammogram, or breast MRI. Ultrasounds do not utilise radiation, presenting a safer alternative for certain groups, including pregnant individuals or those with dense breast tissue.

"Ultrasound is a valuable tool in detecting and characterising breast masses, especially in women with dense breast tissue." - National Center for Biotechnology Information

The Breast Ultrasound Procedure Explained

The breast ultrasound procedure is generally quick, pain-free, and well-tolerated, usually lasting around 30 minutes. A healthcare practitioner will use a handheld instrument, known as a transducer, to produce images of your breast tissue. You might need to adjust your position during the examination so the sonographer can obtain various perspectives of your breasts. Upon completion, you may be asked to dress and wait while the ultrasound images are reviewed.

"This test (Breast Ultrasound) is often used when a change has been seen on a mammogram or when a change is felt, but does not show up on a mammogram" - John Hopkins Medicine

Understanding Your Breast Ultrasound Results

Interpreting breast ultrasound results entails familiarising yourself with terms commonly used in ultrasound reports such as 'lesions', 'cysts', and 'masses'. A radiologist will assess the images from your breast ultrasound and forward the findings to your doctor. The visuals produced by a breast ultrasound are monochromatic (one colour), with cysts, tumours, and growths appearing as dark spots. A dark area on your ultrasound does not automatically indicate breast cancer, as most breast lumps are benign or noncancerous.

What Do Breast Ultrasounds Show?

Breast ultrasounds can reveal various conditions, from benign to potentially worrying anomalies that may necessitate additional tests. While benign conditions include cysts and fibroadenomas, suspicious discoveries might suggest the presence of breast cancer or other conditions. It is important to remember that a dark spot on your ultrasound does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer, as most breast lumps are benign.

"Most breast lumps are benign, or noncancerous." - Healthline

Reading Your Report: Key Sections and What They Mean

Your breast ultrasound results will contain several sections detailing the size, shape, and location of any irregularities found within the breast. It might also assess your breast density, describing the ratio of fibrous and glandular tissue to fatty tissue in your breasts.
Understanding these sections is vital in comprehending the significance of each finding concerning your health. Odycy allows individuals to book appointments with specialist healthcare providers who will help you understand your results and offer tailored advice and treatment options.

Next Steps After Your Breast Ultrasound

The subsequent steps following your breast ultrasound will vary based on the outcomes. If your ultrasound indicates a benign condition, no further action might be required. However, if a concerning finding is uncovered, additional testing, such as a biopsy, might be necessary. Consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation or treatment based on your breast ultrasound results is important.