Breast MRI guide

http://www.umediagnostics.com/patient-information/breast-mri-guide/

Download the PDF version of this guide: Breast MRI Guide

What is MRI?

MRI magnetic resonance imaging is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure, its main advantage is its ability to detect various diseases in their early stages especially in soft tissue anatomy. MRI uses radio waves, a magnet, and computer software to obtain two- and three-dimensional (3D) images of the inside of the body.

Is Breast MRI safe?

Yes, MRI examination poses no risk to the average patient.

Prior to your scan at UME Diagnostics you will be asked to complete an MRI Safety Questionnaire as some conditions may make an MRI examination inadvisable.

How do I prepare for my scan?

Your breast MRI appointment should be scheduled between day 10 and day 14 of your menstrual cycle. Day 1 being the first day that you menstruate. If you are post menopausal, appointments can be made at your convenience. No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally both before and immediately after the examination.

On the day of your appointment you will need to arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment time. It is very important to bring all previous breast imaging (MRI, mammogram and ultrasound) reports and CD images/films on the day of the exam for the radiologist to review and to have a comprehensive impression of your breast health.

As the scan involves the use of magnetic fields, metal and electronic objects can interfere with the MRI’s magnetic field and are not allowed in the exam room.

Please ensure the following are removed prior to your MRI scan:

• jewellery, watches, money, credit cards and hearing aids, all of which can be damaged;
• pins, hairpins, metal zips and similar metallic items, which can distort MRI images;
• removable dental work;
• pens and eyeglasses.

Tell your doctor if you have any of the following:

• breast tissue expander;
• artificial heart valves;
• implanted drug infusion ports;
• implanted electronic devices;
• artificial limbs or metallic joint prostheses;
• implanted nerve stimulators;
• metal pins, screws, plates or surgical staples;
• surgical clips;
• cardiac pacemakers;
• neuro and bone stimulators;
• infusion pump;
• electronic and magnetically activated implants.

In addition, tell your doctor if:

• you are or maybe pregnant;
• you have had recent surgery;
• you have a history of any renal (kidney) problems;
• there is any possibility of metal fragments in your eyes.

The staff will then determine whether it is possible to go ahead with the exam. It is very important to be accurate. You may be asked to provide additional information about implants before a decision on safety can be made.

I have breast implants – can I have a breast MRI?

Yes, breast MRI is recognised as the ‘gold standard’ of imaging used to assess breast implants. If you have breast implants, it is important that you inform the booking coordinator when making your breast MRI appointment. We will also need to know if your implants are filled with saline, silicone or oil, or a combination of these. In addition, we need to know if the implant has a polyvinyl chloride sponge covering prior to your exam.

What can I expect during my scan?

At your medical review, you may be asked to change into an examination gown if your clothes have metal buttons or zips. After changing into a patient gown, you will be led to the MRI suite.

Next, the radiographer will position you on the table of the MRI unit. No radiation is involved, and there is no flattening or compression of the breast. The patient lies face-down on a special table so the breasts are suspended through an opening into unique ‘coils’ that transmit and receive the radio frequency signals used in MRI.

Once you are properly positioned, the table will begin moving you into the MRI tunnel until the area being studied is in the centre of the magnet. It is essential that you remain completely still during the study. You may even be asked to hold your breath. This is because movement can blur the images, making the study less accurate.

At UME Diagnostics the MRI has a large opening to alleviate feelings of claustrophobia and the radiographer will be able to see, hear and speak to you at all times throughout the procedure via an intercom and viewing window. Earplugs and/or music are provided to diminish the sound of the MRI.

How long does it take?

The average breast MRI exam takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Will I need an injection?

Yes, in most cases a contrast medium injection will be given to enhance the images. Breast cancers have a rich blood supply, so tumors ‘light up’ on MRI, helping to distinguish them from normal breast tissue. These are called areas of ‘enhancement’. It is the contrast agent, gadolinium that makes Breast MRI sensitive in cancer detection. When there is no enhancement, the radiologist can exclude the possibility of a lesion with about 95% confidence. Gadolinium is not the same as x-ray dye which contains iodine, and the likelihood of negative reaction is negligible. It is advisable after a contrast injection to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast out of your system.

Please observe your injection site for signs of infection over the next 24 hours eg redness, soreness, weeping and in the unlikely event of such signs occurring please contact the centre you were seen at immediately for advice or contact your GP.

When will I get the results?

The results of your scan will be sent to your referring doctor/consultant within 24 hours of your exam. Your report and images will include a summary of the radiologist’s findings and recommendations for further follow-up.

Chaperone service

All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they feel one is required.

This chaperone may be a family member or friend. On occasions it may be necessary for a formal chaperone to be present, ie a trained member of staff. Please let us know prior to your appointment if you require a chaperone.

Any other queries?

If you have any other questions, worries or doubts do not hesitate to ask one of our staff. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible.