How should I prepare?

• If your previous imaging was not done at one of our locations, you may be asked to contact your former provider and request that your film be sent to us for a comparison study.
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete registration.
• Bring your insurance card and a valid photo ID.

Let us know about any of the following:

• Any metal in your body (Review the MRI metal safety checklist)
• Claustrophobia
• Kidney problems
• Pregnancy - known or possible
• Previous reactions to MRI contrast
• Recent chemotherapy (within 30 days)

Please let us know if you have an insulin pump or glucose monitor. Our imaging machines may cause your device to malfunction, so it will need to be removed during your exam.

How long will my exam take?

Standard Breast MRI exams typically take 30-45 minutes.

What happens during my exam?

You will be asked to change into a gown or scrubs. Jewelry, watches, hair clips and possibly dentures will need to be removed. All personal items will be kept in a secure locker outside of the MRI room. The technologist will give you headphones so you can listen to music during the exam - you may bring a favorite CD with you or listen to a radio station of your choice.

The technologist will place an IV in your arm and position you on your stomach on the scanning table. Your breasts are placed into a depression in the table, which contains coils that detect the magnetic signal.

After an initial series of images have been taken, contrast will be injected into the IV line, and an additional set of images will be captured by the MRI scanner. There is no pain associated with a breast MRI.

What happens after my exam?

There are no restrictions after your exam. You can resume your regular diet and activities.

Your images will be interpreted by a board certified radiologist (physician) who specializes in breast imaging. A report will be sent to your healthcare provider.