Sonomammogram Ultrasound Scan

Purpose of the scan

• Detects breast lumps, cysts or solid masses
• Guides biopsy if needed
• Monitors known conditions safely during pregnancy

Quick facts

Difference from mammography

A mammography uses low-dose X-rays; a Sonomammogram Ultrasound Scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images. This makes it ideal for dense breast tissue and younger women.

High-frequency sound wave technology

A handheld transducer sends sound waves into the breast; echoes bounce back to form detailed images of internal structures.

Typical duration

Expect to be in the scan room for 15–30 minutes, including paperwork and final review.

Bilateral whole-breast ultrasound

Screens both breasts entirely; ideal for high-risk women.

Targeted ultrasound for lump

Focuses on a specific area felt by you or your doctor.

3D/4D high-resolution scan

Adds volume imaging for clearer margin definition and vascular mapping.

• Size and shape of any lesion
• Margins – circumscribed (smooth) or irregular (suspicious)
• Echogenicity – echo pattern compared to fat
• Vascularity on Doppler – blood flow that may indicate malignancy

• Evaluate breast lump or thickening
• Guide biopsy with pinpoint accuracy
• Investigate nipple discharge
• Monitor simple or complex cysts over time

• Women under 40 with dense breasts
• Anyone with a palpable lump or unexplained pain
• Follow-up to an abnormal mammogram or MRI
• Breastfeeding mothers needing evaluation for mastitis or abscess

• No radiation – perfect if you’re pregnant or under 40
• Superior images in dense breast tissue
• Immediate preliminary result – reduces anxiety
• Cost-effective alternative to breast MRI

• Wear two-piece clothing for easy access to the upper body
• Avoid deodorants, powders or lotions – they create artefacts
• Bring previous imaging films or CDs for comparison

• Valid doctor’s prescription
• Schedule between day 7–14 of menstrual cycle if premenopausal
• Disclose pregnancy status – safety protocol at Cadabams Diagnostics

• Post-menstrual week – breasts are less tender
• Any time for post-menopausal women
• Emergency scans arranged same-day when clinically indicated

• Age 18+
• Symptomatic women (lump, pain, discharge)
• High-risk asymptomatic women with family history
• Male breast swelling cases – rare but included

1. Check-in & history – verify prescription and symptoms
2. Ultrasound gel application – water-based, hypoallergenic
3. Transducer scanning – multiple planes and angles
4. Image documentation – stored digitally
5. Radiologist review – preliminary report shared within 2 hours

• Inform about breast implants – special probe settings
• Mention nipple piercings – may need removal
• Report skin infection – rescheduled to prevent spread

• No radiation exposure – safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Cannot detect micro-calcifications – tiny calcium spots linked to early cancer
• Operator-dependent accuracy – skill of the sonographer matters; Cadabams Diagnostics uses certified specialists