Breast MRI
What is an MRI?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a noninvasive test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create images of the body. An MRI of the breast produces multiple detailed pictures of the structures within the breast. This test is used to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities in the breast. It is primarily used as a supplemental tool to breast screening with mammography or ultrasound.
Our Siemens Espree 1.5T Open Bore MRI has a larger opening eliminating the confinements of traditional closed MRI machines. This scanner is designed to minimize feelings of claustrophobia and accommodate larger patients comfortably.
Our state-of-the-art Siemens Espree 1.5T Open Bore MRI provides high-resolution images with, excellent tissue contrast and first-class image quality. As an adjunct to mammography screening and ultrasound, MR provides:
- Conclusive data on the nature of lesions
- Revelation of multi-focal tumors or chest wall involvement dentification of lesions, cysts, leaks and infection in patients with breast implants
- Clear images of dense breast tissue
The Siemens Espree 1.5T Open Bore MRI enables us to examine patients quickly and comfortably. In a single patient visit, we can conduct:
- Bilateral breast imaging
- Breast images that can be displayed in any orientation for comprehensive diagnosis
- Visualization of the entire axilla region and chest wall
Preparing for your exam
PATIENTS WITH CEREBRAL CLIPS AND PACEMAKERS CANNOT HAVE AN MRI, WITH SOME EXCEPTIONS
If you have any of the following, please inform the front desk staff and technologist performing your exam:
Implanted defibrillator or pacing device
Cochlear implants
Aneurysm clips within the brain
Spinal cord or deep brain stimulators
Other metallic devices are potential hazards. Please inform the front desk staff and technologist performing your exam if you have any of the following items:
Heart valves
Infusion ports and catheters
Insulin pumps
Vascular stents
Electrodes
Artificial limbs or joint implants
Metal pins, screws, plates or surgical staples
You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothing and to change into a scrub top, scrub pants or gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, eye glasses, hearing aids, removable dental work and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the MRI images. Women should always inform the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
For your health and safety, metal workers or others with a history of metal shrapnel in the eyes will require simple x-ray screening prior to entering the MRI scanner.
