radprax-Information Centre

Information on Examination

Information for the Breast MRI

In the past few years there has been a dramatic rise in the incidence of breast cancer – even among younger women.

The early and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer is only possible with regular preventative exams performed with the most technologically-advanced medical equipment. The breast MRI has a growing importance for breast cancer prevention.

The latest scientific data show that the breast MRI offers a clear advantage over mammography for diagnosing breast cancer in its preliminary stages. Breast tissue of younger women particularly dense glandular tissue can be much more accurately examined with MRI than with other procedures. Even patients with a previous episode of breast cancer can benefit from the MRI scan as it is the best way to rule out new cancerous growth.

Illustration 8: The breast in a breast MRI

The Examination Procedure

You will lie on an adjustable examination table that will slowly enter the MRI tunnel. You will lie with either your head or feet facing the tunnel, depending on which part of the body is to be examined. The examination lasts between 20 minutes and up to an hour, depending on the kind of examination. During this time you should lie very still on your back in a relaxed position and remain as calm as possible.

During the examination you will hold a bell to alert the technician in case of emergency. Depending on the examination an ECG patch will be affixed to your chest to adjust the images to your heartbeat. In addition, a metal coil will be placed on you and loosely attached with a strap. As the MRI produces loud knocking noises, you will be given a set of headphones to insulate the noise, which can also be used to listen to music. You will sometimes be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time during the procedure.

Some examinations require the use of contrast agents, which is injected into a vein in the arm at a set time during the examination. Before the examination you will be given a so-called in-dwelling catheter, which will then be attached to the contrast agent pump. The contrast agent used in the MRI contains gadolinium rather than iodine, which is generally well tolerated. Patients very rarely experience allergic reactions (itchiness, rash, nausea). The contrast agent will be flushed out through the kidneys. Please inform us if your kidney function is impaired.

Please note that there are absolute contraindications for patients with:

• pacemakers,
• implantierten Neurostimulatoren,
• cochlear implants along with other electronic implants.

Please contact us prior to the examination if you are unsure about contraindications.