When it comes to breast health, having access to advanced imaging can provide important information for patients and their healthcare providers. Beginning September 14, Kirby Medical Center is expanding its diagnostic imaging services to include Breast MRI, giving patients another advanced imaging option close to home.
But what exactly is a Breast MRI, and how is it different from a mammogram?
What Is a Breast MRI?
Breast MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging of the breast, is a noninvasive imaging test that uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed images of breast tissue. Unlike mammography and other X-ray imaging, MRI does not use ionizing radiation.
Breast MRI can provide information that may not be visible through other types of breast imaging. However, it is important to understand that Breast MRI generally does not replace mammography. Instead, it can be used alongside mammography or ultrasound when additional information is needed.
Why Would My Provider Recommend a Breast MRI?
There are several reasons your healthcare provider may recommend Breast MRI.
High-risk breast cancer screening
For some patients who have a higher-than-average risk of developing breast cancer, MRI may be recommended in addition to an annual mammogram. The American Cancer Society recommends annual breast MRI along with mammography for certain women at high risk, including those whose estimated lifetime breast cancer risk is approximately 20% to 25% or greater based mainly on family-history-based risk assessment tools.
Other factors, such as certain genetic mutations or a history of radiation therapy to the chest at a young age, may also affect screening recommendations. Your healthcare provider can help assess your individual risk and determine the appropriate screening plan.
Additional evaluation of a breast concern
Sometimes mammography, ultrasound, a physical exam, or other testing identifies an area that needs a closer look. Breast MRI can provide highly detailed images that may help healthcare providers gather additional information.
After a breast cancer diagnosis
For someone who has already been diagnosed with breast cancer, MRI may be used to help determine the size and location of a tumor, look for additional areas of concern, and provide information that can assist with treatment planning.
Evaluating breast implants
Breast MRI can also be used to evaluate silicone breast implants for possible rupture. When an MRI is performed specifically to evaluate an implant for rupture, contrast is typically not required.
What Happens During a Breast MRI?
For a Breast MRI, patients typically lie face down on a specially designed table with cushioned openings for the breasts. The table then moves into the MRI scanner. Unlike a mammogram, the breasts are not compressed during the MRI.
For many Breast MRI exams, an IV contrast material is administered to help create detailed images. Contrast is generally used when MRI is performed to detect or evaluate breast cancer but may not be necessary when the exam is being performed solely to evaluate an implant for rupture.
Because MRI uses a strong magnetic field, patients should tell the Imaging team about implanted medical devices, metal in their body, recent surgeries, health conditions, allergies, or the possibility of pregnancy before the examination.
Does Breast MRI Replace My Mammogram?
No. For breast cancer screening, Breast MRI is generally used in addition to mammography rather than instead of it.
Although MRI can detect some cancers that may not be seen on mammography, mammography can also identify some cancers that MRI may miss. That is why healthcare providers consider a patient's age, personal history, family history, breast density, genetic risk, and other factors when developing an appropriate breast cancer screening plan.
Advanced Breast Imaging, Close to Home
Adding Breast MRI is another way Kirby Medical Center is expanding access to advanced diagnostic imaging for the communities we serve.
Instead of traveling farther from home for this specialized imaging, patients can receive Breast MRI at Kirby Medical Center in Monticello with the compassionate, personalized care they have come to expect from Kirby.
Breast MRI services begin September 14.
If you believe you may benefit from a Breast MRI, talk with your healthcare provider about whether the exam is appropriate for you.
To schedule a Breast MRI or another MRI examination at Kirby Medical Center, call our Scheduling Department at 217-762-1652. Kirby's MRI services are available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.