What is a breast MRI?
A breast MRI is a sophisticated technology that uses a computer, magnetic field and radio waves instead of x-rays to produce images of the soft tissues in the body. This non-invasive procedure helps better evaluate the breast in special circumstances. When used in conjunction with screening and diagnostic mammography, it can provide valuable information for the detection and characterization of breast disease.
If MRI is used, it should be in addition to, not instead of, a screening mammogram. While an MRI is more likely to detect cancer than a mammogram, it may still miss some cancers that a mammogram would detect. MRI also has a higher false positive rate (where the test finds things that turn out to not be cancer), which would result in unneeded biopsies and other tests if performed on a large portion of women.
Why should I get a breast MRI?
You should consider a breast MRI if you have a higher risk of breast cancer, have dense breast tissue or have found other areas of cancer in your breasts. A breast MRI provides detailed images of breast tissue and can detect smaller tumors or tumors that may have been missed in a mammogram. It can also help assess the extent of cancer has already been diagnosed.
How should I prepare for a breast MRI?
You will be asked to remove all jewelry, since these items disturb MRI signals. It is also very important that any prior breast films (mammograms, ultrasound or MRI) be available to the radiologist for comparison. If you have had these at a facility other than Iowa Clinic Medical Imaging, please let us know so we may obtain the films for comparison or bring them with you on the day of your appointment.
Many of the following items are contraindications to having an MRI as they are not compatible with the magnetic field present around all MRI machines. If you have any of the items listed below, please let us know so we can make arrangements for you before your appointment.
- Cardiac Pacemaker
- Artificial heart valve prostheses
- Aneurysm clips
- Eye implants or metal ear implants or any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically or mechanically
- Copper 7 IUD
- Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
- Pregnancy
- Weight over 350 lbs
- Claustrophobia
- Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in eye
What should I expect during a breast MRI?
In a breast MRI you will lie on your stomach on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine. Your breasts will be positioned into a cushioned opening in the table. You might receive contrast dye intravenously to enhance the images produced by the machine. During the MRI, the machine creates a magnetic field around you that sends radio waves to your body. You won't feel anything, but you may hear loud tapping sounds from inside the machine. The person administering your test will be in another room but will be able to speak with you though a microphone. During the test, breathe normally and lie as still as you can. The breast MRI appointment may take 30-45 minutes.
What are the next steps?
After an MRI, a radiologist will review the images. A report will be mailed to you in 3-5 business days. It will also be available through your referring physician or The Iowa Clinic patient portal within 1-2 business day of your exam. After reviewing the images, doctors may recommend a breast biopsy. Biopsies are the only definitive way to confirm if breast tissue is benign or cancerous. A needle biopsy is a safe, minimally invasive procedure used to get a sample from an abnormal breast lesion. More information on breast biopsies can be found here.