Breast Ultrasound

• What is breast ultrasonography?
• Why can’t I have an ultrasound of my breasts instead of a mammogram?

What is breast ultrasonography?
Breast ultrasonography is used as an adjunct to mammography to distinguish if a lump or mass is solid tissue or if it is simply a fluid-filled cyst. Use of ultrasonography allows our physicians to avoid recommending surgical procedures unnecessarily. At EWBC, ultrasonography is performed by the radiologist only when it is needed to help make a diagnosis.

To see how breast ultrasound is performed, view the Ultrasonography movie in our Video Library.

Why can’t I have an ultrasound of my breasts instead of a mammogram?
Ultrasound has not been proven as accurate at finding small cancers as mammography, particularly cancers that contain tiny calcifications. In addition, no big studies have been performed to date revealing that ultrasound is beneficial as a tool for screening patients. Therefore, most insurance carriers will not pay for ultrasound of the breast in a screening capacity. Ultrasound is used when it is medically necessary for a diagnosis of a lump or an area of concern that is seen on a mammogram or breast MRI.

This page is intended as an educational resource only. It is not a substitute for professional care. Please see your physician if you have any concerns about your own health.

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