Quote: “Breast MRI is amazing technology. We are approaching a time when it will be more routinely used in evaluation of women with or at risk for breast cancer. Mecklenburg Radiology Associates is already prepared for this as we supervise a network of breast MRI scanners across the greater Charlotte area that offer the highest possible quality scans. We also have a group of physicians trained to interpret breast MRI from some the best training programs in the country, including Penn, Stanford, Duke and Washington University in St. Louis.” Eric Insko, MD, Radiologist, Mecklenburg Radiology Associates
MRI is a non-invasive way of looking into the body without the use of x-ray. Instead, it uses magnets and radio waves to create images. Breast MRI combines state-of-the-art three-dimensional imaging with computer-aided detection (CAD) to look deep into the breast to uncover abnormalities. While breast MRI is not a replacement for mammography or ultrasound imaging, it is a very helpful tool in evaluating patients with very high known genetic risks for breast cancer and in:
- Imaging dense breasts often found in younger women and those with fibrocystic breast changes when mammography and ultrasound fail to detect or characterize a palpable abnormality
- Determining the extent of a known cancer. MRI is the most sensitive and specific method for complete local staging of breast cancer.
- Differentiating between surgical scar and recurrent cancer in patients who have already b
een treated for breast cancer
- Identifying mammographically occult cancer in high-risk patients
- Evaluating response to cancer treatment
Breast MRI does not take the place of screening mammograms, as recommended by the American College of Radiology and American Society of Breast Surgeons. Women who have breast MRI should continue to have an annual mammogram.