Breast MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an advanced imaging technique that utilizes strong magnets to take extremely detailed cross-sectional images of the breast.
Some breast MRI exams require a special intravenous (I.V.) contrast to be injected during the exam in order to appropriately evaluate the areas of concern.

Breast cancer screening – some patients may qualify for additional breast cancer screening if they are considered high risk for developing breast cancer. Please contact your clinician if you would like to see if you qualify for high risk screening with breast MRIs
Extent of disease – patients with diagnosed breast cancer may need a breast MRI to evaluate for the scope of involvement of the known cancer as well as for additional sites of disease. This may alter treatment strategies and prognosis
Problem solving – breast MRIs produce very detailed images of the breast and can be used in conjunction with mammograms and ultrasounds to evaluate unspecified areas of concern.
Silicone implant integrity/rupture – breast MRIs can confirm or deny suspected leaks in silicone implants

Breast MRIs are generally done in an outpatient setting or a clinic
The patient’s medical history is obtained and the patient is specifically screened for any potential contraindications to breast MRI (i.e. metallic foreign bodies or implants, pregnancy, claustrophobia)
After an IV is placed, the patient will lay face down on a table with breasts hanging down into an opening in the table
The table will move back and forth into the MRI machine, making loud noises while images are taken; intravenous contrast may be administered during the exam
During the scan, it is very important to remain still