What is a breast ultrasound ?

It is an exam that uses ultrasound to produce images of breast parenchyma. An ultrasound provides images in real time. What is felt during the palpation is visible on ultrasound.

Breast ultrasound is a complementary tool for mammography that supplements the examination. It allows a more in-depth assessment of anomalies seen during mammography. For example, it provides more details about the size and nature of anomalies (e.g., cystic or solid lesion).

Breast MRI is a relatively recent technology that has revolutionized the breast imaging world. It provides a comprehensive, complete and extremely detailed visualization of the breasts and adjacent structures. It can detect lesions that are not visible with mammography or ultrasound. This technique is now utilized for breast cancer screening in patients with strong genetic and family histories of breast cancer (more than 20% lifetime risk). See the risk assessment tool from the National Cancer Institute.