MRI An AURORA® Dedicated Breast MRI System was installed in October 2002 at the Knoxville Comprehensive Breast Center. This FDA approved unit is one of only six in the entire country. The Dedicated Breast MRI is specifically designed for a woman’s anatomy. Both breasts are screened simultaneously versus the single breast method of a traditional MRI. The table allows feet first entry, which reduces the anxiety commonly associated with MRI screenings.
This tool will further enhance the early detection of breast cancer. It will be particularly helpful for women who have equivocal breast imaging studies and women who are at high risk for breast cancer. It will also be valuable for women who have been recently diagnosed and treated for breast cancer to answer questions about possible residual malignancy. Additionally, breast MRI is one of the most sensitive techniques in evaluating possible rupture of silicone implants and will be useful in evaluating women with questioned implant abnormalities.
What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
MRI is a sophisticated technology that uses a computer, magnetic field and radio waves - instead of x-rays - to produce images of the soft tissues in the body. MRI has been safely used for decades to provide information to help in the early diagnosis and treatment of disease. MRI of the breasts has emerged as a new technique in the evaluation of breast disease. When used in conjunction with conventional x-ray mammography, breast MRI can provide valuable information for the detection and characterization of breast disease. MRI doesn't replace mammography - it's a different imaging technique that provides additional information.
What is a Breast MRI Exam like?
The Aurora is designed specifically for your comfort as a woman. During the exam, you will lie on your stomach with your breast placed in openings in the Aurora examination table so that they are suspended away from your chest. Unlike conventional x-ray mammography, breast MRI doesn't require your breast to be compressed, so you shouldn't experience any discomfort. Plus, you'll enter the machine feet first, which reduces feelings of claustrophobia sometimes associated with full-body MRI scanners. You'll receive an injection (usually in the arm) of a contrast enhancement agent called gadolinium that helps to highlight various structures in breast tissue. The gadolinium is administered through a small intravenous catheter which is placed by a certified technologist. An initial scan will be taken and then repeated after the gadolinium is administered. For best results, you should lie very still, relax and breathe normally. The technologist can see and hear you at all times. The entire exam takes about 45 minutes.
Nationally recognized breast centers currently perform breast MRI for a number of reasons including:
- Diagnosis of breast implant rupture
- Surgical planning
- Staging of breast cancer and treatment planning
- Post-surgery and post-radiation follow-up
- Dense breast tissue evaluation
- Monitoring of high-risk patients with a non-radiation alternative
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is required. You can eat and drink as you normally would, engage in regular activities, and take any prescription medication. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before your appointment time. You'll be asked to change into a gown since belts, zippers, snaps and thread in clothing may contain metal that disturb MRI signals. We'll ask you questions before you enter the MRI exam room to confirm that you don't have any metal in or on your body. You'll have to remove all metallic objects such as jewelry, glasses, hairpins and dentures (personal belongings can be locked in a locker). Please be sure to tell the technologist if you have metal implants, a cardiac pacemaker, permanent dental bridges, braces or other metal objects.
What about after the test?
There are no side or after-effects with MRI, so you can resume your normal activities as soon as your exam is over. The radiologist will interpret your MRI scan and report the findings to your doctor.
Does Insurance cover Breast MRI?
Most major insurance carriers cover Breast MRI. If your health plan requires you to have a written referral for this type of exam, please be sure to obtain necessary paperwork prior to your appointment so that we can bill your carrier directly.
Additional Resources:
Aurora Imaging Technology, Inc. is committed to expanding the fight against breast disease by advancing breast imaging. As a diagnostic tool, the AURORA® Dedicated Breast MRI System is ideal for a wide range of indications in breast disease management. visit site
