Breast MRI

Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field to create images of the breast tissue.

It does not use radiation or x-rays like a mammogram does.

MRI has been shown to be a very sensitive tool for screening for breast cancer, particularly for women at high risk, for example, those with a very strong family history of breast cancer, or at risk because of a genetic predisposition. It is also very useful for:

• finding out more about a cancer that has already been found in your breast
• looking for cancer in the opposite breast
• assessing response to treatment such as chemotherapy
• follow-up after treatment for breast cancer
• checking integrity of breast implants

Breast MRI is not a substitute for a mammogram. Whilst it may pick up some cancers not seen on a mammogram, there are some cancers that will only show up on the mammogram. Your doctor will explain if you need both tests. Sometimes screening ultrasound will also be recommended.

There is no special preparation, you may eat and drink normally on the day.

Sometimes we prefer to time your MRI with your menstrual cycle, so our booking staff may ask you questions about this.

Before your scan, you will be asked to complete a detailed questionnaire to ensure it is safe for you to enter the scanner.

You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and pants and remove all metallic objects.

An injection of contrast dye will be given during the examination through a small tube (cannula) placed in the vein in your arm before your scan.

A typical breast MRI scan takes between 20-30mins to complete, where you will be required to stay very still to ensure the best possible images.

For your breast MRI, you’ll lie face-down on a padded table—similar to a massage table. The table has two openings where your breasts will be positioned, allowing for detailed imaging. Your face will rest in a cushioned support, and your arms will be placed above your head.

Our staff will carefully help you into position and make any necessary adjustments to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible before the scan begins. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities throughout the procedure.

The MRI is very noisy and you will be provided earplugs and headphones for hearing protection and music to be played.

If you suffer from claustrophobia, please discuss with staff at the time of booking. The MRI team have many ways to help reduce claustrophobia and anxiety and help you get your scan completed.

There are no known risks. After the MRI examination, you should be able to resume your normal activities immediately.

Your scan will be reported by a specialist breast radiologist, which can take some time because there are many images to look at and compare. Your results will therefore not be available immediately.

You should make sure you have arranged an appointment with your doctor in a few days to discuss your results.

Breast MRI is a safe examination. It uses no radiation. Because the machine contains a strong magnet, this may cause some metallic objects to heat up or move during the scan. For your safety, we will ensure that all jewellery is removed. We will also make sure that any metallic objects inside your body such as clips, pacemakers, wires, etc are MRI safe before your scan.

Allergic reaction to intravenous gadolinium contrast is rare. Reaction is usually mild, such as itchiness or hives. Our staff are specially trained to manage allergic reactions should they occur.