Breast Ultrasound and Cancer Detection: From Dense Tissue to Diagnostic Procedures

Expert Insights from Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley

Learn Look Locate is proud to present expert insights from Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley, Medical Director of The Breast Center at CARTI. With over 17 years of clinical experience in breast imaging, Dr. Smith-Foley shares her extensive knowledge on breast ultrasound, dense tissue, and the importance of comprehensive screening in breast cancer detection.

Expert Insights from Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley

“Breast Cancer Awareness is more than a color and month in the fall. If you have breasts and you have birthdays, you have risk for developing breast cancer. I am honored to partner with Learn Look Locate to help educate women about breast health and wellness. LLL is an amazing resource and I hope to help more people find it.”

Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley brings a wealth of experience in breast imaging to her discussion of ultrasound’s role in breast cancer detection. Her expertise covers a range of topics, from understanding breast density to interpreting BI-RADS categories, offering valuable information for patients at all stages of breast health management.

1. Dense Breast Tissue: A Hidden Risk Factor

Dr. Smith-Foley explains why dense breast tissue requires extra screening and increases cancer risk.

2. The Importance of Mammograms for All Women

Learn why all women should start yearly mammograms at 40, regardless of family history.

3. Ultrasound's Role in Detecting Breast Abnormalities

Discover the importance of ultrasound for women with dense breast tissue, even without family history.

4. Understanding Breast Density Categories

Dr. Smith-Foley breaks down the A, B, C, and D categories of breast density and their implications for cancer detection.

5. The Challenges of Dense Breast Tissue in Cancer Detection

Understand why dense breast tissue can mask cancer on mammograms and increase risk.

6. Advanced Tools in Breast Cancer Detection

Learn about shear wave elastography and its role in identifying potential breast cancers.

7. ABUS: Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound

Explore the benefits of automated whole breast ultrasound (ABUS) in comprehensive breast screening.

8. MRI vs. Ultrasound for Dense Breast Tissue

Dr. Smith-Foley discusses when MRI might be preferable to ultrasound for women with dense breast tissue.

9. Ultrasound for Young Women and Problem-Solving

Understand when and why ultrasound is used as a primary screening tool for young women and in problem-solving scenarios.

10. Ultrasound's Advantage in Difficult-to-Visualize Areas

Learn how ultrasound helps detect abnormalities in areas that mammograms might miss, like behind the nipple and under the arm.

11. Ultrasound's Role in Detecting Multicentric Breast Cancer

Dr. Smith-Foley shares a case study demonstrating ultrasound’s superiority in detecting multiple breast masses.

12. Understanding BI-RADS Category 6

Learn about BI-RADS Category 6 and what it means for patients with confirmed breast cancer.

13. BI-RADS Categories 3, 4, and 5 Explained

Gain insights into the higher BI-RADS categories and their implications for biopsy and further testing.

14. BI-RADS Categories 0 to 2: Follow-Up Procedures

Learn what happens when you’re called back for additional breast imaging after an incomplete mammogram.

15. Differentiating Between Benign and Malignant Findings

Understand the difference between benign cysts and potentially cancerous lesions in breast imaging.

16. What to Expect During an Ultrasound-Guided Needle Biopsy

Dr. Smith-Foley explains the process and safety of ultrasound-guided needle biopsies.

17. The Role of Supplemental Ultrasound Screening

Learn about supplemental ultrasound screening and how it complements annual mammograms.

18. Pain and Pressure During Needle Biopsies

Understand why some biopsies might be more painful and what sensations to expect during the procedure.

About the Expert

Meet Stacy Smith-Foley, MD

Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley is the Medical Director of The Breast Center at CARTI, with over 17 years of clinical experience in breast imaging. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Central Arkansas and earned her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Dr. Smith-Foley completed her Diagnostic Radiology residency at the University of Tennessee and a fellowship in breast imaging at the University of Washington/Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.
Read More about Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley

Dr. Stacy Smith-Foley’s insights offer a comprehensive look at the role of ultrasound in breast cancer detection and diagnosis. From understanding breast density to navigating diagnostic procedures, this information empowers patients to take an active role in their breast health. By staying informed about the latest screening and diagnostic techniques, individuals can work more effectively with their healthcare providers to ensure early detection and optimal care. Remember, breast cancer awareness is an ongoing commitment, and resources like Learn Look Locate are here to support you on your journey to better breast health.