Mammography is not the same as a breast ultrasound or sonogram. Both imaging examinations are capable of searching for breast cancer. The gold standard for finding breast cancer is mammography. However, a breast ultrasound can also spot particular alterations in the breast.

Healthcare professionals may employ breast ultrasounds and mammograms for breast cancer screening and diagnosis because one test complements the other.

Mammograms and Breast ultrasounds both are amazing ways to test and determine some serious problems and their exact position in our bodies. However, this question has always taunted the professionals of Radiology centers at Harding and worldwide since the discovery of breast ultrasound. Can it replace mammograms in the medical field?

We have concentrated on a comparative study between these two to understand the different aspects of these two tests, and we will try to determine if we need both of them.

Key differences between a mammogram and breast ultrasound: 

The functions they play in the process of breast cancer screening are the key distinctions between breast ultrasounds and mammograms. Each test serves a different purpose, even though it is crucial in diagnosing potential malignancy.

Purpose: 

An X-ray of the breasts is what a mammogram is. The best screening method for breast cancer is a mammogram. They can photograph the breast several times and spot calcifications. Mammograms are crucial for detecting breast cancer and monitoring its progress.

Sonograms or ultrasounds of the breast are typically performed for diagnostic purposes. For instance, when examining thick breasts or a suspicious-looking lump seen on a mammogram, an ultrasound is most beneficial.

Working principle: Mammogram vs. Breast Ultrasound: 

How they function is a key distinction between mammography and breast ultrasound. While ultrasounds utilize sound waves to X-ray the breasts, mammograms use low-dose radiation.

• Radiation: Although mammography involves minimal radiation exposure, the advantages typically outweigh the dangers. However, radiation from mammography can harm the fetus if you are pregnant.
• Sound waves: The ultrasound image is produced by the echo that the sound waves from the ultrasound cause. An ultrasound of the breast doesn't release any radiation.

Image Quality: Mammogram vs. Breast Ultrasound: 

• Mammogram: You'll most likely require diagnostic mammography when a screening mammogram finds a suspicious spot in the breast. Diagnostic mammography concentrates on the afflicted area and captures more images than a screening mammogram.
• Ultrasound: Breast microcalcifications cannot be seen by breast ultrasound. Even though calcifications are not necessarily indicative of breast cancer, they frequently lead to the suspicion of early-stage breast cancer.

Limitations: 

Both these tests got some limitations. However, there are more limitations to breast ultrasound than to mammograms.

• Unable to view entire breast: A handheld transducer is used to conduct ultrasounds, which move across the skin in search of anomalies. This implies that the entire breast cannot be examined in detail.
• Cannot see deep tissues: Providers can spot surface bumps well with an ultrasound, but mammography is superior at detecting deep breast tissue problems.

So to conclude, it is safe to say that even though both these diagnostic tests have their benefits and limitations, the professionals at the Radiology centers at Harding and the professionals from the medical field of the world still need these tests. Consult your doctor to determine which tests you may need.