Breast MRI

The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a non-invasive scan using magnetic fields to produce tissue images- helps physicians form a more complete understanding of the natures and properties for a specific area of concern. Breast MRI is typically performed as a supporting evaluation to mammography, ultrasound and breast biopsy. Some of the reasons to perform a breast MRI include:

• to assess multiple tumor locations, especially prior to breast conservation surgery
• to identify early breast cancer not detected through other means, especially in women with dense breast tissue and those at high risk for the disease 
• to evaluate abnormalities detected by mammography or ultrasound 
• to distinguish between scar tissue and recurrent tumors
• to determine whether cancer detected by mammography, ultrasound, or after surgical biopsy has spread further in the breast or into the chest wall
• to assess the effect of chemotherapy 
• to provide additional information on a diseased breast to make treatment decisions 
• to determine the integrity of breast implants