What is Breast MRI?
Breast MRI uses Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to produce clear, detailed images of the inside of the breast. Each exam produces hundreds of cross-sectional images of the breast that are then read by a radiologist. Breast MRI is used as a complement to mammography, not as a replacement.
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When is Breast MRI indicated?
Established indications in Breast MRI include:
- Inconclusive mammogram and/or Ultrasound results
- Lobular cancer
- Look for multifocal and multicentric cancers
- Close/positive surgical margins
- Post-operative scar vs. tumor recurrence
- High risk screening (breast cancer gene carriers, prior treatment for lymphoma, etc.)
- Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy or brachytherapy
- Suspected multiple or bilateral cancers
- Implants and known or suspected cancers
- Implant integrity
What can I expect during the exam?
During a MRI of the breast, the patient lies on her stomach on a scanning table. The breasts are suspended in a depression in the scanning table, which contains coils that detect the magnetic signal. The scanning table is moved into the bore of the MRI. After an initial series of images have been taken, the patient may be given a contrast agent intraveneously. The contrast agent is sometimes used to improve the visibility of the tumor. Additional images are acquired. The exam takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour.
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What is CAD (Computer Aided Detection)
Breast MRI using CAD Stream
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Computer-aided-detection (CAD) is an automated, efficient way to process and interpret studies and guide interventional procedures. CAD helps to standardize breast MRI study analysis and offers customized reporting, designed to generate highly detailed breast MRI study reports that thoroughly and effectively communicate extent of disease.
Computer-aided-detection (CAD) plays a significant role in improving efficiency, standardization and quality in women's imaging programs. CADstream, the first CAD application designed exclusively for MRI, automates image processing functions and corrects for patient movement during the study. The result is more standardized image processing and analysis, higher quality images and more rapid interpretation of the MRI study. The use of CAD ultimately makes breast MRI more accessible to women who would benefit from this valuable study. |
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How do I prepare for the exam?
You cannot be examined by MRI if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Aneurysm clips in the brain
- Inner ear implants
- Metal fragments in an eyeImplanted spinal cord stimulator
A paramagnetic contrast agent (a special "dye" that enhances the image) may be used.
This is given intravenously before the exam to highlight certain body parts. If contrast is required for your exam, please tell your physician:
- If you are pregnant or think you might be
- If you are breast feeding
- If you have anemia or any diseases that affect red blood cells
- If you have asthma or other allergic respiratory disorders
Prior to your MRI examination you may eat and take your medications as you normally would.
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Where is this exam offered?
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Related Topics
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