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Learn About Your
Breast MRI
 Mammograms
use x-rays to generate images of the breast tissue to search for cancer.
A 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 who are at high-risk for 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.
Before
Your Exam: MRI exams generally require little or no special
preparation. Unless your physician specifies otherwise, it is
okay to eat and drink prior to your exam. Jewelry, watches and
other objects containing metal should be taken off prior to the exam, as they can
interfere with the magnetic field of MRI equipment. Please avoid
wearing makeup to your exam as well, since some cosmetics contain
metal.
Time
Required for Your Exam: MRI exams generally last 30-45 minutes, but some can take up to an
hour.
Who
Performs Your Exam: A certified MRI Technologist will perform your
exam.
During
Your Exam: As the scan begins, you will lay down on a padded table that
gently slides you into the opening of the MRI machine. During
the scan, you will hear knocking and buzzing, but these
sounds are normal and should not worry you. We will give you
earplugs so that the noise will not bother you. In order to obtain
the highest quality images possible, it is important that you relax and
lay still throughout the entire process.
After
Your Exam: A radiologist will analyze the images obtained during your MRI and
send a written report to your doctor, typically within 48 hours. |
