Breast Cancer Screening Specialist

Who is a good candidate for automated whole breast ultrasound?

Whole breast ultrasound can be used as an adjunct to regular mammograms on any woman to gain a clearer picture of her breast tissue, but the technology was specifically designed for women with dense breast tissue or breast implants. For these women, obtaining clear, accurate, detailed images of breast tissue with a mammogram alone has been difficult. That's because the implants or dense tissue are more difficult to penetrate with traditional mammogram technology. SonoCiné was developed to painlessly visualize breast tissue regardless of density or implants, producing clear, accurate, detailed images so women can feel confident about their diagnoses.

I don't have a family history of breast cancer; do I still need to be screened?

Yes; research shows about 85 percent of breast cancers develop in women who don't have a family history of the disease. Instead, these cancers develop as a result of genetic mutations and natural changes that occur as the body ages. Having an ultrasound in addition to your mammogram provides more in-depth information about your breast tissue so cancers can be caught early.

What is the procedure like?

Dr. Kelly developed the SonoCiné approach to be painless and stress-free. If you've ever had an ultrasound, you know just what to expect during a SonoCiné breast cancer screening: A special gel will be applied to the exterior of your breast and a handheld device called a transducer will be used to apply gentle pressure while being moved across the breast's surface. The device emits painless sound waves that “bounce off” breast tissue to create images that can be viewed on a monitor. The procedure takes about a half hour or less.

What happens if a mammogram or SonoCiné reveals a lesion in my breast tissue?

In some cases, benign (noncancerous) lumps and nodules may be diagnosed from visual characteristics. Ultrasound is an excellent diagnostic tool that may prevent an unnecessary biopsy.  But in other cases, you may need a biopsy to determine if the lesion is cancerous. Biopsies can also determine the type of breast cancer that's present and how aggressive it may be. Depending on the results of the biopsy, you may also be advised to have biopsies of lymph nodes to determine if the cancer may have spread.

Can Dr. Kelly help me find a treatment provider?

Yes; if a suspicious lesion requires a biopsy or if you need to find a skilled doctor for the treatment of breast cancer, Dr. Kelly can help you identify a treatment provider in your area who has the skills and experience to ensure you receive the best care possible. As a leading radiologist in the the Southern California area, Dr. Kelly has developed an extensive network of oncologists and other care providers and can identify the doctors who would be most suitable for your care needs.

Does Dr. Kelly treat breast cancer?

No, Dr. Kelly is a radiologist, which means he specializes in advanced imaging techniques that can help oncologists (cancer treatment doctors) provide the best, most targeted treatment based on the specific characteristics of your cancer. He can also recommend treatment providers and consult with your chosen oncologist to perform additional imaging tests during treatment to monitor how effective your treatment is in managing your cancer.

Is every lesion cancerous?

No, many lesions are benign, including calcium deposits and fluid-filled cysts. Ultrasound provides greater detail for many lesions suspected of being benign, but in some cases – especially when lesions appear irregular in shape – a biopsy will be needed to make sure the lesion is not cancerous.