MRI of the Breast: Exam Description
Your doctor has ordered a MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of your breast. MRI uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create images soft tissues, bones, and internal body structures. MRI of the breast offers valuable information about many breast conditions that cannot be obtained by other imaging modalities, such as mammography or ultrasound. Each exam produces hundreds of images of the breast, cross-sectional in all three directions (side-to-side, top-to-bottom and front-to-back). MRI of the breast does not replace conventional mammography or ultrasound imaging but rather it is a supplemental tool for detecting breast cancer and other breast abnormalities.
HOW DO I GET READY FOR MY EXAM:
We recommend you print and fill out the MRI questionnaire forms before arriving. It will help accelerate the registration process.
If you are claustrophobic (fear of enclosed spaces) or experience intense pain while lying down for more than 10 minutes, we recommend you contact your referring physician and request a relaxant or pain medication to help you through the scan. The radiology physicians will not prescribe these medications for you.
- Please wear comfortable clothing, preferably cotton, and leave you're jewelry and valuables at home.
- You will be asked to wear a gown for your exam.
- Please call the number below if you have any questions regarding your exam.
(805) 681-7671
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER ARRIVING FOR MY EXAM?
- Please check-in at the main registration desk and then check-in at the radiology reception desk.
- Please inform the technologist(s) if you have any allergies, pregnant, or are nursing, or if you have an aneurysm clip(s), pacemaker, bone growth stimulator, pain pump, and/or other electronic implanted device(s).
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY EXAM?
- The MRI of the breast requires you to lie down (face down) for approximately 40 minutes.
- The scanning table will slide your body into the magnet.
- During the scan, you will not feel anything, but will hear intermittent humming, clicking and knocking sounds. Earplugs will be required during the scan to help mask the noise.
- Approximately twenty minutes into the scan, a contrast agent (dye) might be used to obtain additional information. The contrast will be injected through an IV, which will be placed in your arm prior to your exam. The injection will only take a few seconds. It is normal to experience a metallic taste in the back of your throat. This sensation should dissipate within a few seconds.
- Exams with IV contrast (dye) require renal panel (blood test) results within the last 90 days for the following patients:
- Patients 60 years or older
- Patients with a history of renal disease
- Patients with a history of diabetes mellitus
- Patients with a history of multiple myeloma
- The MRI technologist will talk to you prior to the administration of the contrast.
- It is very important to remain very still during the scan to obtain optimal image quality.
- The technologists will be able to see and hear you at all times during the exam. You will also be provided an emergency device to obtain the technologist's attention at any time, if needed.
- The MRI of the breast will take approximately 60 minutes.
WHAT DO I DO AFTER MY SCAN?
- The images of your scan will be examined by a radiologist and the results will be sent to your referring physician who will review the results with you.
- Drink at least 50-60 ounces of water within 24 hours to eliminate the contrast (dye) from your body. No other dietary or physical restrictions are necessary after your scan.
- You can request copies of your images on a CD-ROM or your report, by calling (805) 692-6435.
Download and print the questionnaire and forms you may need to complete prior to your visit >
SCHEDULING INFORMATION:
Please call (805) 681-7671 to schedule your appointment.