Ultrasound of the nipple (breast) with elastography

What is a breast ultrasound with elastography?

Breast ultrasound (a.k.a. nipple ultrasound - in medical nomenclature, nipple is the term for the entire mammary gland) is a non-invasive imaging test that evaluates breast tissues for potential cancerous changes. This test uses ultrasound waves that bounce off body structures. 

Elastography, on the other hand, is a modern technique used in conjunction with ultrasound. It makes it possible to assess the elasticity (hardness) of tissues, which can be useful in the diagnosis of cancerous lesions, among other things.

Breast ultrasound with elastography versus conventional breast ultrasound

Ultrasound with elastography can provide additional information compared to standard breast ultrasound. It makes it possible not only to detect lesions, but also to determine whether they are benign or cancerous.

What are the indications for the test? 

Every woman over the age of 20 should have a regular breast ultrasound examination as part of cancer prevention. You should go for the examination every 1-2 years - depending on your age and individual health situation. 

Breast ultrasound combined with elastography is recommended in cases of suspected breast cancer, as well as in women with a large amount of glandular tissue in the breast. Such breast structure occurs, among others, in young women and women who have used hormonal contraception for a long time.

Course of breast ultrasound with elastography

Breast ultrasound with elastography is a painless and safe examination. A modern ultrasound machine with elastography function is used to perform it. 

What does the examination look like? The patient undresses from the waist up, takes a seat on a recliner and places her hands over her head. The doctor places a special gel on the head of the camera, applies the device to the surface of the patient's body and moves it over the examined area, applying light pressure. At the same time, the specialist analyzes the image appearing on the monitor. 

The examination lasts several minutes or so and does not cause pain.

• Nipple ultrasound with elastography does not require any preparation on the part of the patient. For your own comfort on the day of the examination, it is advisable only to put on comfortable, non-restrictive clothing.
• No referral for the examination is required. 
• The result of the examination is available immediately.