Patient Information Guide to Breast MRI

How should I prepare for this exam?

As a rule, no special preparation is necessary for breast MRI.

You will be asked to arrive 45 minutes early for your exam and check in at the main reception desk. Please bring your health insurance information and you may be asked to bring any recent mammogram films that you may have.

What can I expect during the procedure?

When you arrive, you will be asked to undress and put on a gown that ties in front.

A technologist will ask you some questions about your medical history.

Because the scanner contains a powerful magnet, MRI must not be performed on people with certain implants in their bodies. Devices such as heart pacemakers, cochlear implants, certain types of electromechanical drug delivery systems, surgical clips and artificial heart valves must never enter the close proximity of the MRI magnet. You will be asked a series of screening questions to ensure that your medical history does not reveal any of these prohibited items.

An intravenous catheter will be placed in your arm or hand for the administration of contrast to enhance the MRI images.

A technologist will help you to lie face down on the padded MRI table, which is fitted with a device to accommodate your breasts. The table will slide into an open tube. The MRI exam is painless and takes about 30 minutes. It will be necessary to lie still during the imaging process.

During the MRI scan, the magnetic field strength is altered using electromagnets. This causes a range of sounds, including banging, buzzing and rumbling noises. You will be offered ear protection. Throughout the examination you will be able to talk with the technologist through an intercom. If you need something or have a concern, press the call button and the technologist will respond immediately.

What can I expect after the procedure?

There are no aftereffects of a breast MRI. You are free to carry on with your normal activities.

What about the results of the breast MRI?

Your physician will receive a written report from our MRI radiologist. Please contact your doctor to review the report. The technologist will not be able to tell you the results of your test.