Ultrasound of postoperative scar after mastectomy

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Ultrasound of the postoperative region after mastectomy is a non-invasive method for evaluating the tissues in the area of the surgical intervention and the adjacent soft tissues.

The examination allows assessment of the structure and condition of the tissues, characteristics of the postoperative scar, and identification of fluid collections, local induration, nodular lesions and other changes. Color Doppler may be used when necessary to assess blood flow in identified areas of abnormality.

Ultrasound is used for dynamic monitoring of the postoperative region and for further assessment of changes identified during clinical examination or other investigations. If suspicious changes are detected, the physician may recommend additional diagnostic tests.

Indications

• monitoring the condition of the postoperative region and the healing process;
• appearance of a lump, induration or mass in the scar area;
• pain or discomfort in the postoperative region;
• local swelling;
• redness or increased skin temperature;
• suspected seroma, hematoma or other postoperative changes;
• changes in the appearance or structure of the postoperative scar;
• follow-up of previously identified changes;
• further assessment of abnormalities detected during clinical examination or other investigations;
• follow-up after reconstructive surgery;
• evaluation of the postoperative region before planned surgical or reconstructive intervention;
• other indications as recommended by the physician.

Limitations

The diagnostic value of the examination may depend on the size and depth of the identified abnormality, the extent of scar tissue changes, anatomical features, and the presence of implants or other materials used during reconstructive procedures.

Ultrasound can identify and characterize suspicious changes; however, in some cases it cannot definitively determine their nature or independently confirm or exclude disease recurrence. When necessary, the physician may recommend additional imaging methods and/or biopsy.

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications to diagnostic ultrasound.

In cases of significant tenderness, an unhealed postoperative wound or other local changes, the examination technique may be adapted according to the patient's condition.

Procedure

The patient is positioned on the examination table in a suitable position for assessment of the postoperative region. Ultrasound gel is applied to the skin.

The physician systematically examines the postoperative scar and adjacent tissues using an ultrasound transducer, assessing their structure, echogenicity, contours, and the presence of local abnormalities or fluid collections.

Color and spectral Doppler may be performed when necessary to assess blood flow. Depending on the location of the scar and the area of interest, the patient may be asked to change position.

The duration of the examination depends on the extent of the assessment and the findings identified.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ultrasound/about/pac-20395177
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6393135/
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-an-ultrasound
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultrasound
https://www.healthline.com/health/ultrasound
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/post-surgical-breast-scar-1

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.