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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the breast – or breast MRI - is a non-invasive test that assists in diagnosing problems in the breast by using a strong magnetic field.A small antenna in the MRI scanner receives the natural radio frequencies emitted by tissues in the breast to create images interpreted by a radiologist.Rhode Island Medical Imaging MRI scanners are tested and certified by the American College of Radiology, the highest national standard available.
Mammograms use x-rays to generate images of the breast tissue to search for cancer. Breast MRI is a different imaging technique that captures multiple cross-sectional pictures of your breast without any radiation exposure. Breast MRI does not replace a mammogram, but is an additional screening tool used for women at high-risk of developing breast cancer.
Women with a greater than 20% lifeline risk for developing breast cancer should consider being screened using breast MRI, along with their annual mammogram. Women are considered high-risk if they have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, received chest radiation for Hodgkin’s disease, or have a genetic predisposition for breast cancer. Breast MRI may also be recommended for women who have an increased risk of breast cancer due to prior history of breast cancer, prior high-risk benign biopsy, or dense breast tissue.Your doctor can help you determine your personal risk level and if breast MRI is appropriate for you.
Breast MRI poses minimal risk to most patients. However, since the MRI scanner uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create images, there may be a danger in screening patients who have implanted mechanical devices such as pacemakers that use electricity to operate. Before the scan, the patient will be asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire to determine if any risks are involved.
There is no special preparation.
Contrast is used in this exam to help highlight any breast abnormalities. The contrast is injected intravenously during the exam and is hypoallergenic.The clear contrast passes out of the body in about a day.
During the MRI scan, the patient lies face down on her stomach.There is no discomfort or compression of the breasts during the exam.
The duration of the exam is about 45 minutes to 1 hour.The actual scan time will be about 30 minutes.
Although MRI exams are covered by insurance, please contact your insurance company for your personal coverage guidelines.
There is no special preparation.
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