tram flap reconstruction/mammograms

Hi there

I has a tram flap reconstruction 2 years ago after a prophylactic mastectomy due to my significant genetic history including Cowden's Disease.  

So I continue to need yearly mammograms since there is no breast tissue left or do they use ultrasound to look for lesions which may have invaded my lymph nodes?

Thanks so much for your help.

maggies 2a

[HeinrikMD]

Hi,
I think the answer is largely technical. If the experience of the center is largely on mammograms only - then for as long as you have baseline ones, you could do with the mammo. Generally, the ultrasound would likely be done to look for other features if the mammo is suspicious. If there is significant experience with using ultrasound as part of screening - this may be the toll of choice. Use of ultrasound for screening the general population is not yet standard of care (there are pending studies awaiting completion to check its applicability) but since you have a higher risk than the general population - there is enough merit in using it.
Discuss your concerns with your doctors and the radiologists who will be performing/reading.
Stay positive and happy new year.