What is a Dedicated Breast MRI?
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.
Breast MRI is ideal for a wide range of indications in breast disease management
- Characterize lesions
- Detect occult cancer
- Determine the extent of cancer
- Monitor cancer therapy
- Evaluate patients with positive surgical margins for residual cancer
- Exclude the existence of cancer in high-risk women
- Evaluate implant integrity and detect cancer in women with breast augmentation
What is a breast MRI exam like?
The Aurora Dedicated Breast MRI is designed specifically for the comfort of a woman. During the exam, you will lie on your abdomen with your breasts placed in openings in the examination table so that they are suspended away from your chest. 
Unlike X-Ray mammography, breast MRI doesn’t require your breasts to be compressed, so you shouldn’t experience that discomfort. Plus, you will enter the machine feetfirst, which reduces feelings of claustrophobia sometimes associated with full-body MRI scanners.
You will 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.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is required. You may eat a light meal, engage in regular activities, and take any prescription medication. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before your appointment time. You will be asked to wear no metal from the waist down and to change into a gown since belts, zippers, snaps, and thread in clothing may contain metal that disturbs MRI signals.
We will ask you questions before you enter the MRI exam room to confirm that you don’t have any metal in or on your body.
Please leave all jewelry at home, if possible.
You will have to remove all metallic objects such as glasses, hairpins, hearing aids, and dentures (personal belongings can be locked in the women’s waiting area). Please be sure to tell the technologist if you have metal implants, a cardiac pacemaker, permanent dental bridges, braces or other metal objects.
Please bring any previous studies with you.
What about after the test?
There are no side- or after-effects with MRI, so you can resume your normal activities as soon as our exam is over. The Radiologist will interpret your MRI scan and report the findings to your doctor.
Does insurance cover breast MRI?
Most major health insurance carriers cover breast MRI. If you health plan requires you to have a written referral for this type of exam, please be sure to obtain the necessary paperwork prior to your appointment so that we can bill your carrier directly.
Questions?
If you have any questions about breast MRI or your exam, please call us at (337) 993-8300 between 8:00am and 5pm, Monday through Friday.
Why Women’s Imaging Centre-Lafayette?
Women’s Imaging Centre-Lafayette houses Louisiana’s first and only dedicated breast MRI system. This system, called Aurora, is an advanced MRI scanner designed specifically to image breasts. The Aurora is the only commercially available, FDA-cleared dedicated breast imaging system available today.
We offer:
- Easy scheduling and same day/next day appointments
- Comfortable surroundings
- Highly trained, caring staff
To schedule your appointment, please call (337) 993-8300.