A breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed pictures of breast tissue without using X-rays. This imaging technique is often used to further investigate abnormalities found on mammograms or ultrasounds, assess the extent of a diagnosed cancer, or screen for cancer in individuals at high risk. Understanding the preparation steps for a breast MRI helps ensure an accurate scan and a more comfortable experience during the procedure.
Preparing in Advance
Before your breast MRI, several preparatory steps ensure a smoother, more effective scan. Discussing all current medications with your healthcare provider is important, especially if you are taking blood thinners or certain diabetes medications, as some may need temporary adjustment. Inform the medical team about any allergies, particularly to contrast agents like gadolinium, or any kidney problems. Gadolinium often enhances image clarity; its safe administration relies on healthy kidney function.
Individuals who are pregnant or suspect they might be pregnant should inform their doctor, as breast MRI with contrast is generally not advised during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. For breastfeeding individuals, it is typically safe to continue after contrast, though some may choose to pause breastfeeding for 12 to 24 hours post-scan. If you experience claustrophobia, discuss this with your physician beforehand for solutions like a mild sedative, which often requires arranging for a ride home. For premenopausal individuals, scheduling the MRI between days 6 and 14 of the menstrual cycle is often recommended to optimize image quality, as hormonal changes can affect breast tissue appearance.
What to Do on Exam Day
On exam day, specific actions ensure a successful procedure. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal components like zippers, snaps, or underwire bras. You will likely change into a hospital gown before the scan. Arrive 15 to 30 minutes early for registration, paperwork, and pre-scan procedures.
Before entering the MRI room, remove all metal objects. These include:
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Hairpins
- Eyeglasses
- Dentures
- Hearing aids
- Body piercings
Even small metallic items can interfere with the MRI’s powerful magnetic field, potentially causing injury or distorting images. Unless instructed otherwise, you can typically eat and drink normally before a breast MRI and take all regular medications. Leaving valuables at home or securing them in a provided locker is also recommended. Communicate any last-minute concerns, discomfort, or anxiety to the staff.
What to Expect During the Exam
Understanding the breast MRI process can alleviate anxiety. You will typically lie face down on a padded table with cushioned openings for your breasts, which fit into a special device called a coil to enhance image quality. Your arms will generally be positioned at your sides or above your head. The table will then slide into the large, tube-like MRI machine.
The MRI machine produces loud thumping, knocking, or drumming noises during the scan. Earplugs or headphones are provided to reduce the noise and may even allow you to listen to music. Maintaining absolute stillness throughout the scan is important, as any movement can blur images and necessitate re-scans.
You can communicate with the technologist via an intercom system from inside the machine. The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, though actual scanning time may be shorter. If contrast dye is used, it will be injected intravenously into a vein, usually in your arm, during a portion of the scan.
After Your Scan
Following your breast MRI, there are generally no immediate restrictions; you can typically resume normal daily activities. If you received a sedative to help with claustrophobia, you will need someone to drive you home. If a contrast agent like gadolinium was administered, it is primarily cleared through the kidneys; drinking plenty of water can facilitate its excretion.
Breast MRI results are typically not available immediately after the scan. A radiologist will interpret the images, and a report will be sent to your referring physician. This process usually takes a few days, though some facilities may provide results within 24 to 48 hours. Your referring doctor will discuss the findings with you and outline any necessary next steps or follow-up care.