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• A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of the tissues inside the breast. A breast ultrasound can show all areas of the breast, including the area closest to the chest wall, which is hard to study with a mammogram. Besides, it is used to see whether the breast lump is filled with fluid (cyst) or if it is a solid lump.
• An ultrasound does not replace the need for a mammogram; however, it is often used to check a problem seen on a mammogram.
• Breast ultrasound does not use X-rays or other types of radiation.

1. Look at the breast in younger women (because their breast tissue is often more Dense, so mammogram shows less detail)
2. Check for breast lumps by self-examination, physical examination, or mammogram; and differentiate its contents.(solid vs. cyst)
3. Find the cause of breast symptoms such as pain, swelling, and redness
4. Imaging-guiding procedure (e.g., sono-guided biopsy, aspiration....etc)
5. Follow-up

The procedure is usually performed by a specially trained technologist (female). A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the area being examined to help with the transmission of the sound wave. The ultrasound transducer (a handheld probe) is then moved back and forth over the breast. A picture of the breast tissue can be seen on the monitor. The procedure is usually between 15 and 30 minutes. More time may be needed if a breast exam is to be done or if a biopsy is also planned.

There is no known risk in having a breast ultrasound examination.

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