Breast MRI is a radiation-free procedure that provides detailed images of the inside of the breast, further characterizing lumps and lesions and allowing for pinpoint localization. At Imaging Specialists, our radiologists are board-certified by the American Board of Radiology to deliver high-quality interpretations, emphasizing their women's imaging expertise.

Our powerful open 3T MRI imaging system, the most advanced MRI surface coils, and Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) assist our highly trained physicians in providing patients with a faster, more accurate diagnosis. The 3T MRI shows highly detailed breast images, which helps locate and evaluate suspicious lesions, which is an invaluable tool in detecting breast cancer at an early stage.

WHEN DO YOU NEED A BREAST MRI

  • Additional imaging is needed from an inconclusive mammogram.

  • A patient has dense breasts.

  • A patient has breast implants.

  • An assessment of a known primary tumor is needed.

  • Therapeutic planning

  • A patient in the high-risk category for breast cancer

  • The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women at high risk for breast cancer, based on certain factors, get a breast MRI and a mammogram every year, typically starting at age 30.

The Breast MRI is simple, safe, and painless. However, because we use strong magnets during the procedure, clothing with metal snaps, buttons, or zippers can't be worn. If needed, a cotton dressing gown will be available for you to use. Metal objects in your body may be hazardous or cause interference. Please print and complete our Breast MRI Screening Form and bring it with you to your appointment to provide us with this important information before entering the MRI department.

  • You will be asked to lie down on a sliding table and be positioned comfortably.

  • The technologist will leave the room for your exam, but you will be able to communicate with the technologist during the procedure through an intercom.

  • You will be asked to remain still during the actual imaging process.

  • You may hear loud sounds while the pictures are taken. However, we provide patients with earplugs to dampen the noise for patient comfort.

  • A contrast medium (gadolinium) is injected for some MRI scans to highlight specific tissues for closer examination. This type of scan helps differentiate between healthy and diseased tissue, making it possible to diagnose many diseases in their early stages accurately.

Most Breast MRI studies take between 15 and 30 minutes. Once you are finished, you will be able to leave the imaging center and continue with your daily routine after the scan. One of our board-certified radiologists will interpret the results of the MRI and report the findings to your doctor within 24 hours.