Extended field-of-view two-dimensional ultrasonography of the breast: improvement in lesion documentation

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of extended field-of-view two-dimensional ultrasonographic imaging for improvement in overall breast lesion documentation. Sonographic images of 59 patients with breast lesions or silicone implants were evaluated by three radiologists retrospectively to compare traditional static linear array images alone with images obtained with the addition of an extended field of view to determine if documentation of lesions was improved. The addition of extended field-of-view imaging improved lesion conspicuity by 21% over traditional images. It provided overall improvement in lesion documentation by including a reference point (nipple) or by more completely imaging large masses in 79% and implants in 69%. The larger field of view of this technique is promising as an adjunct to traditional sonography for breast lesion documentation.