MRI is a diagnostic exam at the center for diagnostic imaging miami which is used to detect abnormalities in breasts including breast cancer. It uses radio waves and magnetic waves to produce detailed images of body organs on a computer screen. However, Breast MRI is not a substitute for mammography or ultrasound, instead, it helps in a thorough analysis of the breasts along with other diagnostic tools.
Why it’s performed
Screening high-risk patients
Breast MRI is a potent tool for screening high-risk patients. People with a genetic history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer are high-risk patients and they need to be screened from time to time to detect the disease at an early stage. If you are not sure whether you come under the high-risk category or not, your physician might help you in the evaluation.
Determining the extent of cancer
Breast MRI can clearly show the extent to which cancer has spread; it is used after the diagnosis to get a clear picture of tissues affected by the disease.
Examining breast implants
Breast MRI helps to find any ruptures and leaks in the breast implants. The sensitivity of mammography to detect cancer does decrease with implant augmented breasts, but it is not the case with MRI, MRI sensitivity has no effect whether the breasts are with implants or without implants.
How to prepare
Schedule your MRI test at the beginning of your menstrual cycle
It is important to schedule your MRI around 7 to 14 days of your cycle. The first day of bleeding will be considered day 1 of your cycle.
Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant
It is paramount to tell your doctor you’re pregnant because a contrast MRI is not recommended for pregnant women.
Let your doctor know about any allergies
Never forget to tell your doctor about any allergies you might have. A colored contrast MRI is done by injecting a dye to your vein, which makes the images easy to interpret.
Tell your doctor about kidney problems
If you are facing any kidney problems like stones, do tell your doctor. The contrast dye used for MRI can cause serious complications for the people suffering from kidney problems.
Refrain from wearing anything metallic during your MRI
The radiologist will ask you to remove any metallic items from your clothing, including belts, bobby pins, necklaces, and watches.
How much time does it take
An MRI at the diagnostic center for women Miami will take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes. Images are seen at the screen, which is then interpreted by an expert radiologist.
