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MICHIGAN ONCOLOGY AND CANCER CARE
Through cutting edge research and treatment innovations, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland is at the forefront of efforts to combat Cancer in Michigan and provide the best in Michigan oncology care. Our patients are treated with the utmost care and respect to help them overcome cancer and other oncology related diseases.
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CLICK HERE FOR A FREE COPY
OF THE MEDICAL REPORT
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THE FACTS ABOUT Breast MRI
Background
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a way of taking detailed pictures and imaging organs, soft tissues, bone, and other internal body parts. It is generally a quick, non-invasive and painless procedure that helps physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
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Podcast Posted: 11/03/2008
Duration:
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MRI relies on a magnetic field, radio waves, a computer, and software in order to produce images of the body. These images may then be viewed on the computer or printed out. a “MRI is a powerful diagnostic tool, especially when used to help detect breast abnormalities,” says Dr. Biren Shah, a radiologist at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland. “The image shows great accuracy and provides more details about abnormalities and therefore, gives us more information about how to treat the patient.”
Physicians can use MRI to analyze and diagnose certain body parts or conditions that would not be detected by other imaging techniques such as ultrasound, x-ray, or CT scanning. Additionally, physicians prefer MRI for breasts as it enables them to see things that mammography and ultrasound do not.
Traditional mammography is still recommended, beginning at the age of 40 for those women with no immediate family history. MRI is not an alternative to mammography but an ancillary tool that is used to better image abnormalities or cancers of the breasts. Additionally, MRI can provide information on stages of cancer, whereas ultrasound and mammography cannot.
With MRI, physicians can:
• Evaluate abnormalities detected by mammography
• Screen for cancer in women who have implants that may hinder the accuracy of a normal mammography reading
• Identify breast cancer at the earliest stage possible
• Assess multiple tumor locations
• Assess the effect of chemotherapy
• Better tailor treatment plans to each patient because of the clarity of picture provided
• Evaluate breast implants. Breast MRI is the best tool to assess for possible breast implant rupture
Additionally, breast MRI may also utilize contrast material in order to gain more detailed images. Contrast material helps physicians determine whether a growth is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) as well as its exact location. Furthermore, contract material will also illustrate whether or not lymph nodes are enlarged.
MRIs are a non-invasive, virtually pain free procedure. Depending on the facility, you may be asked to get into a gown or you may be able to wear your own clothes. Additionally, you may follow your own dietary routine unless otherwise directed. The radiologist will ask you about your medical history and provide the contrast material if necessary.
You will lie in the MRI unit and radio waves will be directed to the area of your body under study. The computer will then generate images of the body part. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and generally takes 30-45 minutes.
Please contact the SJMO referral line at 800.372.6094 for a physician near you.
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