Breast Cancer Awareness month- Do you need a Breast Ultrasound?
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month
1 in 8 Canadian women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in their lifetime. While research is advancing our knowledge of breast cancer and treatments, it remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Mammography screening for women over 40 can aid in early detection. ( Women with implants do require a dedicated mammogram instead of the screening). Mammography isn’t the only imaging modality suited to image the breast. Occasionally a breast ultrasound is also needed, especially if a lump is felt. How can Elysian Imaging help you with breast concerns?
Elysian Imaging and Diagnostics offers Breast Ultrasounds.
What is breast ultrasound?
Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the breast tissue. It is used to visualize various abnormalities inside the breast tissue like cysts, tumors, dilated ducts, and enlarged lymph nodes. It is often used in conjunction with mammograms to pinpoint specific structures to aid in a diagnosis.
When is breast ultrasound used?
Ultrasound can be used to look at changes in the breast such as palpable lumps that are sometimes not seen on a mammogram, when there is pain felt in the breast and it is especially useful for women with dense breast tissue. Seeing abnormal areas on a mammogram can be challenging when dense breast tissue is present. Ultrasound, on the other hand, excels at visualizing these areas. Ultrasound is used to differentiate between cysts (fluid-filled masses), and solid masses which sometimes require follow-up care such as a biopsy.
What can I expect at my breast ultrasound exam?
Ultrasound uses a transducer and gel to image the breast. It glides across the skin and the technologist will take multiple images for the radiologist to view. It is a painless procedure that takes approximately 30-60 minutes depending on what is necessary.
How will I get my results?
After the exam, the technologist will forward the images to the radiologist for review. A report will be sent out to your doctor within 7 business days.
Ultrasound is quick, painless, and does not use radiation. It is a cost-effective way to image the breast tissue with appointments available within the week at Elysian.
For more info on Breast Cancer and how you can donate- https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/breast-cancer-awareness-month
Breast Ultrasounds require a requisition from a doctor. Any health authority requisition can be used, or click below for the Elysian Requisition. Ultrasounds are booking within a few days of us obtaining the requisition.
If you have a requisition please email us a copy at imaging@elysianhealth.ca , you can check availability here by clicking the button, and call 604-256-3010 to book your appointment