What is a breast MRI?

A breast MRI is a non-x-ray study using magnetic energy that images both breasts at the same time. It is a technology that requires the administration of a non-iodine contrast material intravenously to show areas in the breast that have an active growth pattern.

Does a breast MRI replace mammography or ultrasound?

No. The breast MRI is an additional imaging technology that complements mammography. Mammography is the most important breast screening technology.

If I have mammography and an MRI, will I get too much x-ray exposure?

Normal mammograms use x-rays to generate images of the breast tissue to search for cancer. MRI, on the other hand, uses no x-rays, but rather magnetic energy. Many breast abnormalities including most but not all breast cancers are detectable with breast MRI. Abnormalities will concentrate a special non iodine contrast material allowing the radiologist to visualize and interpret these abnormalities using magnetic energy rather then X ray energy.

Why is it called a “dedicated” breast MRI?

The only imaging this system does is of the breast. Unlike other MRI systems where every type of body scans are performed, this system is dedicated to perform only breast MRI. This allows for the best possible imaging since only breast studies are done with this MRI. “Dedicated” also means that a breast radiologist, dedicated to reading only breast imaging will interpret the breast MRI. This is unique in this area and possible since only breast studies are being done with this MRI system. There is no long wait for an appointment because only breast studies are done.

Who does the breast MRI?

A highly trained breast imaging technologist, under the direction of a dedicated board certified radiologist who only interprets breast MRI’s, mammograms and breast ultrasounds, performs the study at The Westchester Breast MRI. Other centers may use technologists who take many different types of x-rays and scans.

Will I have to go into the “tunnel” to have the MRI?

Yes, the breast must be in the center of the magnet, but unlike most body scanners you will be on your stomach, and go into the magnet feet first. Most women who have had other types of MRI’s find the dedicated breast MRI does not give the claustrophobic feeling that often accompanies other MRI’s.

How long does a breast MRI take?

The entire study takes approximately 45 minutes. You will first have a series of images done. Then you will be given the contrast injection and the images will be repeated. The radiologist will then compare the images without contrast to the images with contrast.

When would I need a breast MRI?

There are specific indications for the breast MRI. If your doctor feels you meet one of those indications, the breast MRI will be recommended by your doctor.

Click here for some common indications for breast MRI.

If the MRI is positive does that mean I have breast cancer?

No. There are many benign conditions that will be seen on a breast MRI. The most common are some cysts, fibroadenomas, and papillomas.

If the radiologist sees something on the breast MRI what will happen?

If an abnormality is seen, the radiologist will characterize it as one that needs only a follow up MRI study in three to six months or as an abnormality that requires a biopsy. Needing a biopsy does not mean you have breast cancer.

Will I need a referral to make an appointment?

This depends on your health insurance. Most policies do require a referral and a pre-certification. You should check with your insurance company. If pre-certification is required, tell us when you make an appointment and we will take care of it.

How do I make an appointment?

Just call us at (914) 937-0091. We are open 5 days a week, Monday through Friday from 8 to 5. We almost always are able to accommodate within a few days or even sooner.

When will I get the results?

You will get your results before you leave the Dedicated Breast MRI Center. The radiologist will review your study and will then sit with you and explain what was seen.

Will my doctor get the results?

Your doctor will receive a call from the radiologist, and this will be followed by a formal written report.

If something is seen on the MRI that requires a biopsy, how will that be done?

If something is seen, the next step is usually a focused breast ultrasound to see if the MRI finding can be seen with ultrasound. If the ultrasound finds the abnormality, the biopsy can be performed using ultrasound guidance. If the ultrasound is negative, it is possible to dot the biopsy under MRI guidance, or a mark may sometimes be placed in the breast and a surgical biopsy may be necessary, using the mark to guide the surgeon to the correct breast tissue.

If a biopsy is done, how soon will I get the results?

The results are almost always available in one business day. However, if your insurance company requires that the biopsy be sent to another laboratory, then the wait for the results may be considerably longer.

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