MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) for Breast Examination

MRI is a technique used to visualize organs and tissues. This examination involves a magnetic field and radio waves. Signals are generated and detected within the body, and a computer translates them into images. MRI can be used when there are uncertainties even after a mammogram and ultrasound. This is especially useful in cases of poorly assessable mammograms or when there is dense glandular breast tissue. MRI can provide a better view and understanding in such cases.

Breast MRI can be used for:

  • Screening patients at high risk for breast cancer (carriers of a gene mutation or with a family history of the disease).
  • Clarification after a mammogram and/or ultrasound.
  • Dense breast tissue and age over 50.
  • Assessing the extent of an abnormality.
  • Detecting leakage from breast implants.
  • Assessing the response to treatment following neoadjuvant chemotherapy for a tumor.

MRI breast

During Breast MRI To create an MRI of the breasts, a contrast agent is often used to differentiate between different tissues in your breasts. This is done when there is a need to rule out or identify benign or malignant abnormalities.

If the examination is performed for the assessment of breast implants and potential leakage, contrast agent is not used.

The contrast agent is administered through a small, thin needle in your arm. It is injected during the MRI scan, and you usually don't feel much from it. During the breast MRI, your upper body will be exposed, and if you wish, you'll be covered with a blanket while lying on your stomach.

You'll lie in the MRI machine with your breasts hanging freely within a special coil (see video). This can be compared to a type of cushion. The technologist will slide you into the MRI machine, which looks like a long, round tunnel open at both ends. You'll be given a bell in your hand to signal the technologist if you need to communicate. The technologist can see you through the glass from the control room and via a camera. They can also hear you through an intercom. When inside the MRI, you will hear a pulsing, buzzing, or vibrating sound, varying in intensity. Prior to the examination, you'll be given earplugs and a headset with your choice of music to minimize the noise disturbance.

During the examination, it's crucial to remain as still as possible to ensure optimal image quality. Any movement can disrupt the MRI image, potentially making it insufficient for an accurate diagnosis. The technologist will discuss this with you during the examination and may ask you to try again if there is movement. The examination takes between 20-45 minutes, depending on the scanning protocol.

MRI breast

 

After the MRI examination, the intravenous needle will be removed, and you can get dressed.

The images will be sent to our specialized radiologists, who will review your examination. We aim to provide you with the results and discuss them within 72 hours.

Preparing for the MRI Examination

The MRI magnet attracts metal, so objects containing metal must not be brought into the examination room. This includes items with magnetic strips or chips like (credit) cards, coins, jewelry, watches, piercings, keys, hairpins, dentures, and hearing aids. If you wear a medicated patch, you must remove it before the examination.

Avoid using mascara, zinc ointment, deodorant, or hairspray before the examination. It's advisable to wear comfortable clothing without metal elements such as zippers, buttons, or decorations. A pair of sweatpants is preferred.

You don't need to be fasting for the examination.

Menstrual Cycle

If you still have a menstrual cycle, we recommend scheduling the MRI examination between day 7 and 14 of your cycle, with day 1 being the first day of your period. Planning this correctly is important because hormonal fluctuations can affect the MRI's quality at other times of the cycle.

If there is an urgent need for your examination, we will schedule it as soon as possible and not consider the "right" time within your menstrual cycle.

If you have any questions based on this information, feel free to call us at the number below, and we'll be happy to provide further clarification and answers to your queries.

Breast MRI Animation

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