Advanced technology in the detection and diagnosis of breast cancer is now available at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a non-invasive procedure, is now being used to analyze the inside of the breast, providing physicians with a new way to monitor the breast health of their patients.
The questions and answers below will help in understanding the Breast MRI procedure, when it may be used, and the benefits to the patient.
What is MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves to look at the inside of the human body. MRI is an effective diagnostic tool because it is sensitive, accurate, and delivers high-quality images. Because it is a non-invasive procedure, there are less potential risks to the patient than other diagnostic techniques such as radiation. An MRI often eliminates the need for more costly or invasive tests or exploratory procedures.
An MRI is a quick, painless diagnostic exam that helps your doctor monitor your health, inside and out. It is commonly used to look at almost any part of the body—joints muscles and internal organs.
How does breast MRI work?
Breast MRI is quite similar to a standard MRI. During the procedure, the patient lies on her stomach on a scanning table. The table has a depression for the patient's breasts to rest in, which allows for unobstructed viewing by the magnetic signal. Images are taken of the desired area(s) of the breast for further examination. The process takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour.
A medical technician takes pictures of the area being examined, using the MRI machine. Sometimes, patients receive an injection with a contrast agent or colored dye to help define contrast in the areas being studies. The injection involves very little discomfort.
The MRI technician is with the patient at all times and communicates with her throughout the exam, answering any questions she may have.
How does computer-aided-detection enhance breast MRI?
Computer-aided-detection (CAD) can improve efficiency, standardization and quality in women's imaging programs. The CAD application used at SBRMC is designed exclusively for MRI, automates image processing functions, and corrects for patient movement. The result can be a more uniform image processing, better quality images and quicker interpretation of the MRI study.
When would I need a breast MRI?
Patients generally receive a breast MRI when they have an increased risk of abnormalities in the breast tissue, to diagnose or treat breast cancer, and as post-operative follow-up to monitor healing. A breast MRI might be used in the following cases:
- High-risk patients
- Chemotherapy
- Breast cancer, including suspected multiple or bilateral tumors
- Detection of breast cancer in women with breast implants
- Post-operative evaluation
Who is a good candidate for breast MRI?
Your primary physician can make the best determination regarding your potential benefit from a breast MRI. However, patients usually fit into one of the following profiles:
- A personal or family history of breast cancer (especially pre-menopausal cancer in a 'first degree' relative, i.e., a mother, sister or daughter)
- The presence of breast cancer mutation
- Prior breast cancer in either breast
- A personal history of other, non-breast cancers (especially Hodgkin Lymphoma)
- A personal history of organ transplant (kidney, Heart, lung, etc.)
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Abnormal cells or suspected tumor in a previously biopsied area
- Women with dense breast tissue
When is MRI not a good ideal?
MRI isn't always suitable for every patient. Certain health conditions or medical treatments may preclude you from having an MRI. These might include patients who have a pacemaker, inner ear implants, metal fragments in one or both eyes, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Be sure to share your complete medical history with your doctor.
You'll be asked these routine questions before the MRI is administered, to make sure that you are a candidate for MRI and so that the technicians take appropriate precautions. Discuss any questions you may have with your doctor in advance. He or she can make the determination as to whether an MRI is appropriate for you.
For more information, contact South Baldwin Regional Medical Center,
Imaging Center, 251-949-3508, www.southbaldwinrmc.com.