Breast MRI and MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy

Breast MRI is an advanced imaging test that creates detailed images of breast tissue. Your referring physician may recommend a breast MRI to evaluate an area of concern, examine breast tissue that may be difficult to assess with other imaging, or determine the extent of a known breast cancer.

If an area seen on MRI cannot be clearly identified with a mammogram or ultrasound, an MRI-guided breast biopsy may be recommended to obtain a small sample of tissue for further evaluation.

What Is a Breast MRI?

Breast MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and contrast material to create detailed images of the breasts. Unlike mammography, MRI does not use radiation.

Breast MRI can provide information that may not be visible on a mammogram or ultrasound. Your referring physician and radiologist will determine whether breast MRI is appropriate based on your individual circumstances and other imaging results.

Why might I need a breast MRI?

A breast MRI may be recommended to:

• Further evaluate an area of concern found on a mammogram or ultrasound
• Examine breast tissue when other imaging does not provide enough information
• Determine the extent of a newly diagnosed breast cancer
• Look for additional areas of concern
• Monitor certain patients at increased risk of breast cancer
• Evaluate breast implants or other specific breast concerns

Breast MRI is generally used in addition to mammography rather than as a replacement for it.

What to Expect During a Breast MRI

Before your exam, you may receive an IV injection of contrast material to help the radiologist see breast tissue more clearly.

During the MRI:

• You will lie face down on a padded table designed for breast imaging.
• Your breasts will rest in openings in the table.
• The table will move into the MRI scanner.
• You will need to remain as still as possible while images are taken.
• You will hear knocking or buzzing sounds from the equipment.
• The technologist can communicate with you throughout the exam.

If you are nervous about the exam or have concerns about claustrophobia, let your imaging team know before your appointment.

What Is an MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy?

An MRI-guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to collect a small sample of breast tissue for laboratory testing.

Your physician may recommend this type of biopsy when an area of concern can be seen on MRI but cannot be adequately located using mammography or ultrasound. MRI images help the radiologist precisely locate the area and guide the biopsy needle.

What happens during an MRI-guided breast biopsy?

During the procedure:

• You will lie face down on the MRI table with your breast positioned through an opening.
• MRI images will be taken to locate the area of concern.
• Your skin will be numbed with a local anesthetic.
• A small needle is guided into the area using MRI images.
• Several tissue samples are collected and sent to a pathology laboratory.
• A small marker may be placed at the biopsy site for future imaging or treatment, if needed.

An MRI-guided breast biopsy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home afterward with instructions for caring for the biopsy site.

Will an MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy Hurt?

A local anesthetic is used to numb the breast before the biopsy. You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the anesthetic is administered, followed by pressure during the procedure.

If you experience discomfort, let the radiologist or technologist know so they can help make you more comfortable.

What Happens After the Biopsy?

The tissue samples are examined by a pathologist, and the results are sent to your referring physician. Your physician will discuss the results with you and explain any recommended next steps.

A biopsy does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer. Many breast abnormalities are benign, or noncancerous. The purpose of a biopsy is to determine what the area is and provide information to guide your care.