Contents:
- Medical Video: What to expect at a breast MRI
- For what breast MRI is done?
- Risk of breast MRI
- How do you prepare for breast MRI?
- What is the breast MRI process?
- Results from breast MRI
Medical Video: What to expect at a breast MRI
Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test that uses magnets and radio waves to see abnormalities in the breast. MRI makes it easier for doctors to see tissue in the body.
Your doctor can ask you to do an MRI scan of the breast if he suspects any abnormalities in your breast.
For what breast MRI is done?
MRI of the breast is used to examine the breast if other tests are inadequate, to check for women at risk of having breast cancer, or to monitor the development of breast cancer and its treatment.
Other reasons for breast MRI include:
- Dense breast tissue
- Diagnosis of breast cancer
- Family history of breast cancer
- Breast implant leakage
- Lumps in the breast
- Precancerous breasts
MRI of the breast is recommended for use with a mammogram. Although breast MRI can detect abnormalities, there are some cancers that are better visualized by mammograms.
Risk of breast MRI
MRI is considered a safer alternative for pregnant women than scans that use radiation such as CT scans. Even though radiation levels on CT scans are safe for adults, but not safe for the fetus.
There is no evidence that magnets and radio waves are dangerous. Although safer, breast MRI also has several considerations:
- Inaccurate results: this test cannot always distinguish cancer and non-cancerous growth, but can detect things that appear to be potentially cancerous. A biopsy is needed to confirm the test results.
- Allergic reactions to contrasting dyes: MRI uses coloring agents that are injected into the bloodstream to make it easier to see images. Dyes can cause allergic reactions and serious complications for people with kidney problems.
How do you prepare for breast MRI?
Before MRI is done, the doctor will explain the test and look back at your physical and medical history. Tell your doctor what medication you are using or if you have certain allergies. Also tell if you have an implant device because you can experience the effects of this test. If you have experienced an allergic reaction to a contrast dye, or if you are diagnosed with a kidney problem, and if you are or have the potential to become pregnant and breastfeeding, tell your doctor. This test is not safe for pregnant women, and breastfeeding women are prohibited from breastfeeding for 2 days after the test.
It is important to schedule MRI at the start of your menstrual cycle. The best time is between the 7th day and the 14th day of your monthly cycle.
The MRI machine is in a narrow, closed room, tell your doctor if you have claustrophobia. Your doctor can give you sedatives or do an "open" MRI where the machine is not too close to your body. The doctor can explain the choice for you.
What is the breast MRI process?
The MRI machine includes a flat table that can be shifted in and out. The part that is like a wheel is the place of magnets and radio waves that produce images of your breasts.
Before the scan, you will use hospital clothing and remove all your jewelry. If you use a contrast dye, an IV infusion will be placed on your arm so that the dye can be injected into your bloodstream.
In the MRI room, you will lie on your stomach on the table. Then you will enter the machine. Technical experts will instruct, such as when to shut up and hold your breath. Instructions will be given through the microphone.
You will not feel the engine working, but loud noises will be heard. Technical experts might give ear plugs. The test usually lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once the image has been recorded, you can go out and change clothes.
Results from breast MRI
The radiologist will check the results of the scan and give it to your doctor. The results of MRI images are black and white. Tumors and other abnormalities can appear as white patches, due to contrast dyes that gather in increased cell activity. If the results of an MRI show cells that appear to be potentially cancerous, the doctor will do a biopsy, where the tissue sample will be taken. A biopsy will confirm if the tissue is cancerous or not.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
