What is sono-mammography?
Sono-mammography is a breast ultrasound. Dr. Chandak uses it to take a closer look at breast tissue, often to further examine a lump or area that was found on a mammogram, or as the first step for women with dense breast tissue where ultrasound can see more clearly.
Screening vs. diagnostic sono-mammography
There are two ways this scan is used:
- Screening sono-mammography: used to check breast health in women without any symptoms, often as a complement to mammography for those with dense breast tissue
- Diagnostic sono-mammography: performed when there's a specific breast complaint, or to investigate an abnormal finding on a mammogram or clinical exam
Why is sono-mammography done?
- To further evaluate a lump or area flagged on a mammogram
- To distinguish a fluid-filled cyst from a solid lump
- As a complementary scan for women with dense breast tissue
- To investigate breast pain, nipple discharge, or a palpable lump
- To guide a needle biopsy for a suspicious area
How to prepare
No special preparation is required for this test.
What happens during the test
A small amount of gel is applied to the breast, and the probe is moved gently over the area. Unlike mammography, there is no compression involved, and no radiation is used. The scan is painless and usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
What happens after the test
There is no recovery time needed — you can go about your day right away.
Is sono-mammography safe?
Yes. It uses sound waves rather than radiation and can be repeated as often as clinically needed.
Frequently asked questions
Screening sono-mammography checks breast health when there are no symptoms, often alongside mammography for dense breast tissue. Diagnostic sono-mammography is done to investigate a specific complaint or an abnormal finding.
No. It is usually used alongside mammography, not instead of it, since the two tests show different things. Dr. Chandak will advise which combination is right for you.
No. There is no compression involved, and most women find it more comfortable than a mammogram.
Dense breast tissue can make it harder to see through on a mammogram alone. Ultrasound can see more clearly in these cases, which is why the two are often used together.
It's commonly used to evaluate a lump found on self-exam or on mammography, or for women whose mammogram shows dense breast tissue.