Evaluating a Breast Lump
While most breast lumps are non-cancerous, it is still important to determine the nature of the lump or changes in the breast. If an abnormality appears on the mammogram, additional tests may be performed on site at our main location in Torrance.
BREAST ULTRASOUND
Ultrasound is a painless procedure used to further evaluate a breast lump or aid in determining the nature of a nonpalpable mammographic abnormality. If the lump can be felt, a physician may use the results of a mammogram and ultrasound test to determine whether or not additional tests are needed. Breast cyst aspiration also uses ultrasound as a guide to drain a cyst in the breast. Ultrasound-guided mammotomy breast biopsies are performed.
STEREOTACTIC (NON-SURGICAL) MAMMOTOMY BIOPSY
Also available on site at the Polak Breast Diagnostic Center in Torrance, stereotactic mammotomy biopsy offers an alternative to surgical biopsy for the diagnosis of breast cancer. The stereotactic technology makes it possible to precisely locate and accurately diagnose lumps that cannot be felt. If your doctor recommends this procedure, it can be performed on an outpatient basis and you may resume normal activities the same day. You and your physician will receive test results the next day. Should you be a candidate for this procedure, more information will be given to you.
TEST RESULTS AND FOLLOW-UP
In most cases, results from any of these tests are made available to your physician the next day. You will receive a letter with your results by mail. Depending on the results, your physician may prescribe any additional test or treatment. In addition, if your mammogram is normal, you will receive a notice in the mail in about one year to remind you to schedule your next check-up.