Neck vs. Axillary Lymph Nodes: What Sonographers Should Know

Knowing the difference between documenting lymph nodes in the neck verses the axilla, though confusing, is important.

Axillary Lymph Nodes: What to Document

Axillary lymph nodes frequently respond to benign triggers such as infection, inflammation, or even recent vaccines.

What to Image

• Image all lymph nodes in the axilla with and without Color or Power Doppler.

• Display the hilum, shape, cortex, and vascularity clearly, showing the entire node ensuring you are not skewing it and making it appear lobular or abnormal.

When to Measure Cortex

• Measure the cortex when it is ≥ 3 mm.

• Measure the thickest cortex if multiple nodes exceed 3 mm.

Symmetry Matters

• If you find a 3 mm cortex or thicker on one side, always scan and document the contralateral axilla.

• Symmetry helps differentiate reactive nodes from something more suspicious.

When to Measure in Three Planes

Only measure lymph nodes in three planes if:

• The node has an abnormal appearance, such as:

  • Round shape/

  • Heterogeneous texture

  • Loss of fatty hilum

  • Increased vascularity

  • Irregular cortical thickening

Reactive normal appearing elongated nodes do not require three-plane measurement.

For more info and images on how to correctly image axilla lymph nodes, click here.

Neck Lymph Nodes: What to Document

Ultrasound assessment of the neck focuses on identifying lymph nodes within the major neck levels (I–VI) and distinguishing normal reactive findings from features suggestive of malignancy. Neck nodes can respond to infections, dental issues, thyroid conditions, or systemic inflammation.

What to Image

• Show all visualized lymph nodes with and without Power Doppler.

• Include images to demonstrate:

  • Shape

  • Hilum

  • Cortical thickness

  • Vascular pattern

Short Axis Evaluation, (note that cortex size is not a typical factor for the neck).

It is ideal to follow your companies protocol, but consider that short axis is a great guideline to follow. ACR mentions that short-axis enlargement and loss of the normal elongated morphology are suspicious findings. :

• Short axis, (the distance across the shortest axis, regardless of plane): The generally accepted normal short axis diameter is < 10 mm.

• 10-15mm can be normal in certain levels if it appears morphologically normal.

  • Normal: Oval, central fatty hilum, hypoechoic cortex and central hilum with normal vascularity.

When to Add Additional Views or Levels

• If a neck lymph node appears round, heterogeneous, or demonstrates abnormal vasculature, measure it in three planes.

Three-Plane Measuring

Measure in three planes only when the lymph node looks:

• Large

• Round

• Heterogeneous

• Vascular

• Lacking a fatty hilum

Know the Difference Between a Complex vs. Complicated Breast Mass

When it comes to breast imaging, a few words can make a big difference. Two of the most commonly confused terms are complex breast mass and complicated breast cyst. While they may sound similar, these findings carry very different levels of concern, different BI-RADS assignments, and different follow-up recommendations. Understanding the distinction is crucial for both patients and providers—and especially for ultrasound technologists who play a key role in breast care.

Complicated Breast Cyst: Usually Benign and Low-Risk

A complicated cyst is essentially a simple cyst with “extra features.” Instead of being completely anechoic, it may contain:

• Low-level internal echoes

• Debris

• Fluid–fluid levels

• Thin septations

These cysts still show no solid components, no vascularity, and no suspicious wall abnormalities.

Why it matters:

A complicated cyst is overwhelmingly benign. In most cases it receives a BI-RADS 3 (probably benign) classification, meaning short-term follow-up imaging is recommended, not an immediate biopsy. They commonly represent debris-filled cysts, fibrocystic change, or resolving inflammatory processes.

For the patient, this means reassurance with routine monitoring rather than urgent worry.

Complex Breast Mass: Higher Suspicion, Requires Tissue Diagnosis

A complex mass, on the other hand, is a different category entirely. It refers to a mass that contains both cystic and solid components. This may include:

• Thick septations

• Mural nodules

• Solid internal components

• Vascular soft tissue within the mass

These features cannot be considered benign debris. Solid elements—especially vascular ones—raise the level of concern for possible malignancy or high-risk pathology.

Why it matters:

A complex mass is not categorized as a cyst at all. Because of the presence of solid tissue, it is typically given at least BI-RADS 4 and almost always requires biopsy for accurate diagnosis. While many turn out to be benign (such as papillomas or complex fibroadenomas), the risk of malignancy cannot be ignored.

For the patient, this means swift action: appropriate referrals, prompt imaging, and tissue sampling to confirm what the mass truly is.

Why This Distinction Is So Important

1. It Changes the Management Pathway

• Complicated cyst → follow-up imaging

• Complex mass → image-guided biopsy
  Correct categorization prevents over-biopsying benign lesions while ensuring suspicious ones are not missed.

2. It Impacts BI-RADS Classification

Mislabeling a complicated cyst as “complex” may lead to unnecessary procedures.
Mislabeling a complex mass as “complicated” may delay a diagnosis that requires urgent attention.

3. It Reassures Patients With Accurate Information

Breast findings can cause anxiety. When the terminology is explained clearly, patients feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.

4. It Improves Workflow and Communication

Radiologists, technologists, referring providers, and patients all rely on precise terminology. Using the correct classification improves clarity across the entire care team.

Final Thoughts

The difference between a complicated cyst and a complex breast mass is more than just a few letters—it’s a difference in risk, urgency, and management. As breast imagers and technologists, recognizing these features helps ensure patients receive accurate diagnoses and timely care. Understanding this terminology improves confidence, enhances communication, and ultimately supports better breast health outcomes.

The Importance of Ultrasound Ergonomics: Protecting Yourself from Musculoskeletal Injury

Why Ergonomics Matters in Ultrasound

Sonographers and clinicians performing diagnostic imaging are at particularly high risk for musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries — often called “sonographer’s shoulder” or “scanning wrist.” The repetitive motions, sustained postures, and forceful transducer grips that come with daily scanning can take a serious toll over time.

According to multiple studies, more than 80% of sonographers report work-related pain, and many experience chronic symptoms that lead to reduced productivity, medical leave, or even early retirement.

The good news? These injuries are largely preventable with proper ergonomic awareness and small but consistent adjustments in technique.

Common Causes of MSK Injuries in Ultrasound

1. Repetitive Scanning Motions – Hours of scanning, particularly in obstetric or vascular cases, create repetitive strain on the neck, shoulder, and wrist.

2. Sustained Awkward Postures – Twisting the trunk or extending the arm away from the body to reach the patient increases muscular load and shoulder torque.

3. Poor Equipment Setup – Monitors positioned too high, tables that don’t adjust, or heavy transducers all contribute to strain.

4. Workload and Time Pressure – When schedules are tight, ergonomics are often the first thing sacrificed, even though they’re essential to long-term performance.

Strategies to Prevent MSK Injuries

1. Optimize Your Scanning Setup

• Adjust the chair and table height so your shoulders are relaxed, elbows are near your torso, and wrists are in a neutral position.

• Position the patient close to minimize reaching or leaning.

• Align the monitor directly in front of you at eye level to prevent neck rotation or tilt.

2. Practice Microbreaks

Take a 20–30 second stretch break every 20 minutes to reset your posture. Gentle shoulder rolls, wrist stretches, or standing extensions can make a measurable difference.

3. Vary Your Scanning Technique

Alternate your grip when possible, especially during long procedures. Make sure you are as close to your patient as possible.

4. Strengthen and Stretch

A consistent shoulder, core, and upper back strengthening routine supports better posture and injury prevention. Focus on flexibility for the neck, wrists, and forearms.

5. Advocate for Ergonomic Equipment

Modern ultrasound machines now include lightweight transducers, adjustable arms, and programmable presets to reduce strain. If your workplace doesn’t provide ergonomic updates, document symptoms and request a review—your health is worth the investment.

Recognizing Early Warning Signs

If you notice:

• Tingling, burning, or numbness in your fingers

• Persisting shoulder or neck stiffness or pain after each shift

• Pain in your shoulder, elbow, wrist, or fingers

• Pain that persists beyond the workday

…it’s time to intervene early. These are warning signs of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) such as tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or rotator cuff inflammation.

The Bigger Picture: Ergonomics as a Professional Standard

Ergonomics isn’t just about comfort — it’s about career longevity and diagnostic quality. A pain-free sonographer can focus better, scan more efficiently, and maintain consistency in patient care. Many accrediting bodies and continuing medical education (CME) programs now include ergonomics as part of workplace safety and performance standards.

Final Thoughts

Investing a few moments in ergonomic awareness can protect your greatest professional asset — you. Whether you’re a new sonographer or a seasoned clinician, prioritizing posture, workflow design, and physical health ensures you can continue providing high-quality care for years to come.

Measuring Centimeters From Nipple

As an ultrasound technologist, interpreting mammograms can sometimes feel overwhelming. You’ve got multiple planes to analyze — and with the addition of 3D tomosynthesis, there’s even more information to process.

When you finally gain the confidence to know exactly where to look for the lesion, that’s when you reach that comfy, badass breastie status, which we all so strive to reach. Let’s start with the fundamentals: traditional 2D mammographic planes.

Start with the Basics: 2D Mammographic Views

As shown in my MammoMind tutorials in Mastery Academy: MammoMind, one helpful tip is to visualize the breast as if it were your own — orienting yourself to the direction each view faces.

• Mediolateral Oblique (MLO) View – Tells you whether the lesion lies in the upper or lower portion of the breast.

• Craniocaudal (CC) View – Identifies whether the lesion is in the lateral or medial portion.

By combining information from both views, you can determine which quadrant the lesion is located in. Once you have this, choose the closest clock-face position and estimate the likely range where the lesion would appear.

Remember the Mnemonic: MULD (Muffins Rise, Lead Falls)

This is my go-to trick for understanding the MLO view.

• MULD = Medial Up, Lateral Down.

• If it’s medial, it’ll appear one clock up (higher).

• If it’s lateral, it’ll appear one clock down (lower).

Or just say to yourself:

“Muffins Rise, Lead Falls.”

Once you get this down, mammogram-to-ultrasound correlation becomes second nature.

Measure It Like a Pro: CMFN (Centimeters From Nipple)

After you’ve found the clock position, it’s time to measure the distance from the nipple to the lesion using your PACS ruler tool.

This is where precision really counts.
Getting that CMFN right helps you:
✅ Match findings between mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.
✅ Give your radiologist exact coordinates.
✅ Build consistency in your reports — and your confidence.

Avoid the Most Common Mistake 🚫

A lot of techs accidentally measure lesion depth instead of distance from the nipple — and it’s an easy slip to make.

If you’re not 100% sure how to get the CMFN measurement correctly, check out my short tutorials below. They show exactly where and how to measure without confusing it with depth.

🎓 Watch: How to Properly Measure CMFN on Ultrasound

Want to See Real Examples?

Take a look at UCLA’s excellent teaching resource for how CMFN is applied in breast imaging reports:
🔗 UCLA Breast Imaging Teaching Resources — Mammography Masses

💡 Final Thoughts

Measuring from the nipple might seem like a tiny step in the big picture of breast imaging — but it’s one of those details that separates good technologists from great ones.

When you understand how to translate what you see on mammography into the ultrasound field, everything becomes smoother — your scans, your confidence, and your communication with radiologists.

At MammoMind, we believe every detail matters. Because the more precise you are, the more power you have to impact breast health outcomes every single day. 💗

Come back soon to learn how to read 3D tomosynthesis mammograms!

Finding Your Confidence as a New Ultrasound Technologist

Starting out as a newly graduated ultrasound technologist can feel overwhelming. Between learning to navigate the machines, interpreting anatomy in real time, and balancing patient care with efficiency, it’s normal to feel hesitant or unsure. The good news? Confidence and skill come with practice, patience, and the right strategies. Here are some key pointers to help you thrive early in your career.

1. Master Your Worksheets

Your worksheet is your professional voice when you’re not in the reading room. Radiologists rely on your summaries to understand the case quickly, so it’s important to be clear, concise, and precise.

• Pay attention in clinicals: Notice the phrases that experienced techs frequently use.

• Be efficient: Shorten words where appropriate without losing clarity.

• Paint a clear picture: Summarize findings as if the radiologist is reading your words to mentally recreate the exam. They have limited time; make every word count.

2. Phone a Friend

Don’t suffer in silence. Everyone struggles when starting out — it’s part of the learning process.

• Ask peers for tips or help with tricky cases.

• Radiologists often enjoy teaching and guiding motivated techs.

• Remember, collaboration is part of ultrasound — learning from others accelerates your growth.

3. Manage Your Time Wisely

Time management is critical in ultrasound. Being efficient doesn’t mean rushing; it means being strategic.

• Politely keep patients on track if they get talkative.

• Decide when to write worksheets immediately and when to complete them later if you’re behind.

• Use “buffer time” at the end of exams when you’ve finished early to document while it’s still fresh in your mind.

4. Know Your Limitations

Ultrasound is as much art as science, and there are many variables outside your control — patient body habitus, bowel gas, or other imaging obstacles.

• Don’t strive for perfection on every single image.

• Don’t aim for that one perfect image, instead paint a clear picture of what you’re trying to convey as you image and scan through each organ.

• Recognize when an image is impossible to get and move on; efficiency and judgment play a big role in being a great technologist.

5. Stay Open to Constructive Criticism

Feedback is your fastest route to improvement.

• Keep an open mind and use critique to refine your skills.

• Once you think you know it all it's time to hang up that probe; in Ultrasound, you will never know it all. When you start to think you do, something will always pop up to humble you.

6. Choose the Right Work Environment

Starting your career in a supportive, structured setting makes a huge difference.

• Hospitals or slower-paced facilities allow time for mentorship and hands-on practice.

• Working alongside a partner or experienced tech gives you a safety net to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.

Bottom Line:
Being a confident, efficient ultrasound technologist doesn’t happen overnight. It takes practice, curiosity, and humility. Follow these strategies, seek guidance when needed, and always be open to learning — your skills and confidence will grow faster than you expect.