A Better Picture of Breast Health
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses strong magnets to take comprehensive images of your breasts. It takes multiple pictures from different angles and processes them into detailed pictures.
There are many reasons your provider may recommend you get a breast MRI. They are used to detect, diagnose and manage breast cancer or other breast abnormalities.
Who Should Get a Breast MRI
Breast MRIs can be either a supplemental screening tool or an additional diagnostic exam. An annual breast MRI doesn’t replace your routine breast cancer screening. If you’re considered high risk for breast cancer or have dense breast tissue, you may get an MRI in addition to your annual mammogram.
Your physician may recommend you get a breast MRI:
- As part of your high-risk screening plan
- After a diagnostic mammogram
- To see if you need further testing, including a breast biopsy
- To evaluate your health after a lumpectomy
- To determine the stage of breast cancer
- For follow-up exams after cancer treatment
What Happens During an MRI
MRIs help the radiologist determine if a mass is cancerous or noncancerous without using radiation. They work using magnets to take images of the soft tissues of the body that may be hard to see using other imaging methods.
During the breast MRI, you’ll lie face down on a special table with your arms above your head. Your breasts will hang down into an opening so they can be scanned without being compressed.
This test is painless, and the scan takes about 30 minutes. Tell your provider if you get anxious in small spaces. You can bring a sedative if you need one.
Getting an MRI at Edith Sanford
If you’re interested in preventive screenings for breast cancer, consider scheduling a mammogram. Call (855) 353-3484 to schedule a mammogram at the Edith Sanford Breast Center.
Talk to your provider to learn if they would recommend you get a breast MRI.