An overview of Breast MRI
A breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a medical imaging test used to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities in the breast. It captures multiple images of the breast, which are combined using a computer to create detailed pictures. Breast MRI is often performed after a biopsy confirms the presence of cancer, as it helps healthcare providers assess the extent of the disease. It may also be used as a screening tool, in combination with mammography, for detecting breast cancer in individuals with a high risk of the disease, such as those with a strong family history or hereditary breast cancer gene changes. During the test, the patient lies facedown on a padded scanning table, and a contrast agent may be injected through an IV line to enhance image quality. The MRI machine creates a magnetic field around the patient, and radio waves are directed at the body, which produces detailed images.
What is Breast MRI used for?
A breast MRI is primarily used to assess the extent of breast cancer and to screen for breast cancer in individuals at high risk of the disease. It can also be used in cases where a suspected breast implant leak or rupture is present, when a person has very dense breast tissue, or when there is a history of precancerous breast changes or hereditary breast cancer gene changes. Breast MRI is not a replacement for mammograms and is intended to be used in conjunction with other breast imaging tests.
How to prepare for Breast MRI?
To prepare for a breast MRI, you should:
- Schedule the MRI for the beginning of your menstrual cycle or at a specific time during your cycle, depending on your menstrual cycle phase.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, as the MRI procedure may involve a dye.
- Let your provider know if you have kidney problems, as gadolinium, a common dye used in MRI, can cause complications in people with kidney issues.
- Avoid wearing metallic objects during the MRI, such as jewelry, hairpins, and watches.
- Inform your provider if you have any implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, defibrillators, drug ports, or artificial joints.
On the day of the MRI, you may be given a gown or robe to wear, and instructed to remove your clothing and jewelry. You may receive a mild sedative if you have trouble being in a confined space. During the procedure, a dye may be injected through an IV in your arm to enhance image quality. The MRI machine creates a magnetic field around you and radio waves are directed at your body, but you won't feel them. The technologist will monitor you from another room, and you'll be able to communicate with them through a microphone. You'll need to lie as still as possible during the test.
How is Breast MRI conducted?
During a breast MRI test, you will lie facedown on a padded scanning table. Your breasts fit into a hollow depression in the table, which contains coils that detect magnetic signals from the MRI machine. The entire table then slides into the opening of the machine. The MRI machine creates a magnetic field around you and radio waves are directed at your body. You won't feel the magnetic field or radio waves, but you may hear loud tapping and thumping sounds coming from inside the machine. Because of the loud noise, you may be given earplugs to wear. A dye (contrast agent) may be injected through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm to make the tissues or blood vessels on the MRI pictures easier to see. The technologist monitors you from another room and you can speak to them through a microphone. You'll be instructed to breathe normally but to lie as still as possible. The breast MRI appointment may take 30 minutes to one hour.
How are Breast MRI results reported?
The results of a breast MRI are typically reported by a radiologist specializing in imaging techniques. After reviewing the images from the MRI, the radiologist will communicate the findings to a member of the patient's healthcare team, who will then contact the patient to discuss the results of the test.
Understanding the report
Breast MRI results are interpreted by a radiologist who specializes in imaging techniques. The radiologist will analyze the detailed pictures generated from the multiple images captured during the breast MRI. They will look for any abnormalities, such as breast cancer or other anomalies, and assess the extent of any disease present.
The results of the breast MRI will be shared with a member of the patient's healthcare team, who will then contact the patient to discuss the findings. It's essential to follow up with the healthcare provider to discuss any necessary next steps, such as additional testing, treatment, or monitoring.