Centres/Radiology/Ultrasound/Breast ultrasound

Breast ultrasound (and galactography)

Breast ultrasound in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Breast ultrasound in Tunis: complement to mammography, palpable lump, dense breasts, young women and follow-up after breast surgery.

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What is it?

A breast ultrasound examines the breasts and the lymph nodes in the armpits. It very often complements mammography, especially when the breasts are dense, and it is the first-line test in young women and during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can tell a cyst (a benign pocket of fluid) from a solid lump, and guide a biopsy if needed. After removal of a breast (mastectomy), it is used to monitor the chest wall and lymph nodes. In case of nipple discharge, the doctor may suggest a galactography: an X-ray of the milk ducts after a contrast agent is injected through the opening of the nipple.

When is it indicated?

Lump in the breast

It shows whether it is a cyst or a solid lump, and guides the next steps.

Complement to a mammogram

It examines an image seen on the mammogram or dense breasts.

Young women, pregnancy, breastfeeding

Without X-rays, it is the first-line test in these situations.

Follow-up after breast surgery

After a mastectomy, it monitors the chest wall and lymph nodes.

Nipple discharge

Ultrasound and, if needed, galactography look for a lesion in the ducts.

Preparation

1No special preparation is usually needed

2Do not apply cream or talc to the breasts on the day of the examination

3Be sure to bring previous mammograms and ultrasounds

4For a galactography, tell us if you are pregnant or allergic to contrast agents, and do not squeeze the nipple in the days before

5Bring your referral, previous imaging (ultrasound, X-rays, CT scan, MRI) and any relevant reports

Procedure

You lie on your back with your arm raised behind your head

A slightly cold gel is applied to the skin so that the ultrasound waves pass through well

The doctor examines each breast and armpit with the probe

For a galactography, a fine catheter is placed in the discharging duct, the contrast agent is injected gently, then X-rays are taken

The gel is wiped off; you can return to your usual activities straight away

Duration

About 15 to 30 minutes; a little longer for a galactography

Results

The images are analysed by the doctor performing the examination, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the relevant images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.