Breast MRI
One of the most promising technologies in the enhanced detection of breast cancer is breast MRI. It's ideal for screening women at high risk for breast cancer and those with implants or particularly dense breast tissue. It's also commonly used to identify suspicious masses without surgery, determine the integrity of breast implants, stage breast cancer, and measure responsiveness to cancer therapy. Mission Regional Imaging Center also performs MRI-assisted needle biopsies.
For a breast MRI, the patient lies on her stomach and her breasts rest in a cushioned recess containing the signal receiver (also known as the breast coil). There is no compression of the breast as in a mammogram. The entire bed on which she is lying is advanced into the MRI tube. The patient will need to lie still while a series of images are captured in 5 - 15 minute increments. The entire exam takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour and is painless.
Important Information for Breast MRI Patients
Because of the magnetic field, extra caution is needed for MRI patients with any of the following conditions. If you have one of the items listed below, please call our center before your appointment, as an alternate imaging modality may be recommended.
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Cochlear (ear) implant
- Artificial heart valve
- Metal plate, pin or other metallic implant
- Aneurysm clip
- Previous gun shot wound
- Metal worker (past and present)
- Permanent (tattoo) eye-liner
- Pregnancy