Soft tissue ultrasound

Soft tissue ultrasound helps assess a palpable lump, thickening or swelling beneath the skin. It shows the location and size of a lesion and its relationship to surrounding tissues. At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk, examinations are performed by radiologist Dr Ewa Kołyszko.

What does a soft tissue ultrasound examine?

The scan focuses on a specific area of the body, primarily the skin, subcutaneous tissue and accessible parts of muscles. The radiologist assesses whether a lesion is fluid-filled, solid or mixed, how deep it lies and its blood supply.

This service mainly covers superficial lumps and swellings. A detailed scan of a joint, tendon or ligament is a musculoskeletal ultrasound examination and may require a separate appointment and assessment. When booking, specify the exact location and nature of your symptoms.

When might the examination be useful?

• A new lump or thickening beneath the skin.
• A suspected lipoma, cyst or other superficial lesion.
• A haematoma, swelling or fluid collection after an injury or procedure.
• A suspected abscess or local inflammatory change.
• Follow-up of a previously identified lesion, as advised by your doctor.

A growing lump, particularly one that is deep or does not move freely, needs medical assessment even if it is painless. Rapidly increasing painful swelling with redness or fever may require an urgent consultation.

Can ultrasound diagnose a lipoma or cancer?

Some lesions have a typical benign appearance, but ultrasound does not always establish a definitive diagnosis. The findings need to be considered alongside the clinical examination, the rate of growth and any previous treatment.

If the appearance is uncertain or suspicious, the doctor may recommend MRI, a specialist consultation or an appropriately planned biopsy. Decisions about taking a sample should follow an assessment of the lesion. Ultrasound does not replace histopathological examination when this is needed.

Preparation and what happens during the scan

A scan of a superficial lesion usually requires no fasting or changes to regular medicines. Bring previous reports, especially if the lump has already been examined or treated. Show the doctor the precise area where you can feel the abnormality.

Once the area is uncovered, the doctor applies gel and moves a probe over the skin. We use a GE LOGIQ E10 ultrasound system. The examination involves no needle insertion or X-rays. Pressure over a tender area may cause discomfort.

Soft tissue ultrasound in Gdańsk – results and appointments

Examinations are performed by Dr Ewa Kołyszko. The report describes the lesion and whether further investigations are recommended. Any follow-up interval is agreed individually.

Book through the Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre reception team. Call +48 58 719 10 25 or email kontakt@tartaczna2.pl.