Investigations

X-ray

Digital X-ray

Pathological Investigations

Ultrasound

Ultrasound works by using a very high frequency sound which is not audible and which is entirely harmless. It is particularly effective in younger women who have denser breast tissue that has not showed up well on mammography. ultrasound scans are effective for breast diagnosis in all age groups and many women will be advised to have a mammogram and an ultrasound scan.

The ultrasound scan is carried out by a Consultant Breast Radiologist, who specialises in breast radiology. The examination is carried out with the patient lying flat on her back. It is The Consultant Radiologist will move the ultrasound probe over the skin pressing down gently. It takes10-12minutes.

Mammogram

Mammograms are x-rays of the breast, generally carried out in women over the age of 35 years. This is because the breast tissue in younger women is relatively much denser with the result that the details of breast tissue being x-rayed are lost. . Most women of the appropriate age group will be advised to have a mammogram if they have a breast problem.

A mammogram is carried out by a female Radiographer who has specialised training in this form of x-ray. Each breast  is gently compressed between the two surfaces of the x-ray machine. The x-ray itself takes just a second and is repeated on the other side. .   The x-ray films are viewed and reported by a Consultant Breast Radiologist .

previous mammograms will always be compared with your present mammograms.

Mammograms are also done for screening reasons they are helful in early detection of cancer.

                               

                                        Mamogram of a female with implant

 

Fine needle aspiration cytology F.N.A.C.

This type of biopsy uses a veryine needle rather than thinner than that used for taking blood The fine needle biopsy (FNAC) works by obtaining single breast cells or small clusters of cells which can be easily examined by our Consultant Breast Pathologist. The test often yields just a drop of fluid which may or may not be blood stained. The fluid is immediately spread onto a glass slide and examined under the microscope. The fine needle test is very quick and is usually not more uncomfortable than having a blood test. We do not usually use any local anaesthetic as the local anaesthetic itself has to be injected and often stings for a minute or two