Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides in-depth breast images and is usually done when a physician needs additional information about a breast abnormality. Breast MRIs are not used in place of screening mammography, breast ultrasound, or a clinical breast exam. MRI is not recommended for pregnant women. Only a physician can order a breast MRI. Learn more about uses of breast MRIs, preparing for a breast MRI, and what to expect during your MRI.
Uses of Breast MRIs
- Diagnose breast conditions or stage breast cancer
- Review multiple tumor locations prior to breast surgery
- Identify possible breast abnormalities in women with dense breast tissue
Preparing for your breast MRI
Before you have your MRI, tell your doctor if you have:
- Allergies: MRIs sometimes use injected dye to help with the images
- Kidney problems: a common dye used in the procedure can cause complications in patients with existing kidney conditions
- Claustrophobia: your doctor may prescribe a mild sedative.
- Implanted medical devices or metal in your body: pacemakers, artificial joints, defibrillators, implanted drug ports, artificial heart valves, implanted nerve stimulators, metal pins (or screws, staples, stents, plates), cochlear implants, clips used for brain aneurysm
Day of MRI
- Remove all jewelry and metallic objects (hairpins, watches, necklaces, body piercings)
- Take out hearing aids and removable dental work
What to expect during a breast MRI
- You will lie on the table with your breasts in a hollow depression in the table. The table slides slowly into the center of the MRI machine.
- You will be alone in the MRI room, but your technologist will see you through the glass and is in constant communication with you throughout the procedure.
- It is important to remain as still as possible.
- You will hear tapping or thumping sounds from the machine during the test. You may be given earplugs for this.
- MRIs are done in sequences that may last several minutes each. The total session usually lasts from 30 minutes to one hour.
- A radiologist reviews the images and the hospital sends the radiology report to your referring physician.
Learn about other diagnostic tests: Breast Ultrasound, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy.