Breast MRI
MRI of the breast uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the structures within the breast. It is primarily used as a supplemental tool to breast screening with mammography or ultrasound. It may be used to screen women at high risk for breast cancer, evaluate the extent of cancer following diagnosis, or further evaluate abnormalities seen on mammography.
When is this exam recommended?
MRI of the breast is not a replacement for mammography or ultrasound imaging but rather a supplemental tool that has many important uses, including:
- Screening in women at high risk for breast cancer
- Determining the extent of cancer after a new diagnosis of breast cancer
- Further evaluating hard-to-assess abnormalities seen on mammography
- Evaluating lumpectomy sites in the years following breast cancer treatment
- Following chemotherapy treatment in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy
- Evaluating breast implants for possible rupture
What are the benefits?
- MRI has proven valuable in detecting and staging breast cancer, particularly when other imaging studies (mammography, ultrasound, etc.) fail to provide adequate information.
- MRI as an addition to mammography has been shown to be useful in evaluating women at high risk for breast cancer.
- MRI can successfully image the dense breast tissue common in younger women, and it can successfully image breast implants. Both of these are difficult to image using traditional mammography.
- If a suspicious lesion is seen with MRI only, MRI can provide guidance for biopsy.
Are there any risks?
- Any medical devices implanted into your body may be at risk of malfunction due to the strong magnetic field.
- In very rare cases, in patients with poor kidney function, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a possible complication when contrast is used.
- Gadolinium-based contrast has a very slight risk of causing an allergic reaction which can usually be easily treated.
- Pregnant women should consult with their physician prior to an MRI exam. However, there have been no documented negative effects of MRI in the many years of its medical usage, and MRI is often the method of imaging chosen for pregnant women and fetuses. It should be noted that MRI contrast agents are not recommended to be used during pregnancy unless the benefits far outweigh the risks.
- The ACR states that current information suggests breastfeeding is safe after the use of intravenous contrast. Please discuss your breastfeeding options with your medical provider.
How should I prepare?
- Guidelines about eating and drinking before an MRI exam will vary. You will be informed of any exam preparations required during the scheduling of your exam.
- Before your MRI exam you will be asked to change into a gown; removing undergarments that may have metal fasteners or fibers.
- Jewelry and other metal objects can not be worn during the exam. Please try to leave them at home if possible.
- You must notify the technologist if you have any implanted medical devices or any metal in your body. These can interfere with the exam and can cause harm during an MRI because of the strength of the magnet.
- Inform the technologist if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant
