Breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is done in
conjunction with mammography, to follow up abnormalities
such as nipple discharge, dense breast tissue, or a previous
history of breast cancer. It is also used to check for a
rupture in breast implants.
If you have not already read the general information about
MRI at SIRA, please visit the
SIRA MRI
page.
This exam takes about twenty minutes. A woman technologist
will bring you, after your mammogram, to a room with a
special exam table, where you will lie on your stomach. Your
breasts will hang suspended through an opening in the table,
in a special coil, and an IV will be inserted in a vein in
your arm. During the exam you must remain completely
motionless for the best results. A contrast solution will be
injected through the IV during the exam, so the MRI may get
clear images of any abnormalities.
The MRI images will be studied by a radiologist using a
special computer, and the results will be forwarded to your
referring physician, who will contact you with a report. If
you do not hear back from your physician within two weeks,
call the doctor’s office or SIRA.
