Breast MRI

What is a Breast MRI?

Breast MRI is a noninvasive test that uses a magnetic field coupled with an injection of intravenous dye to look at the blood flow patterns of the breasts. Breast MRI is painless, takes about 30 minutes and does not involve exposure to radiation. Although mammograms remain the standard of care for breast cancer screenings, some cancers may not be visible on mammograms, often because they are hidden by areas of dense breast tissue (link to dense breast page).

Because images produced by MRI are very detailed, this technology can detect small changes or abnormalities and determine whether or not an area is cancerous. Breast MRI is a powerful test for detecting breast cancer. This exam is also used to check for leakage or rupture of breast implants. MRI is one of the most complex and specialized breast imaging tests, expertise and training is required of staff, technologists and doctors involved in performing and interpreting them.

Breast MRI does not take the place of traditional breast cancer screening methods. Annual physical exams by your health-care provider, monthly breast self-exams and annual screening mammograms are still encouraged.