Melanin & Pink Ribbons

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and it is a useful tool in the fight on breast cancer.  The source for this information is the dense breast website and it is chock full of helpful information for any patient or caregiver.  I will simplify the info to make it less intimidating and easier to understand.

• Noninvasive medical test
• Test involves the use of very strong magnets and radio waves to create breast images
• An intravenous fluid is injected into the arm yo provide a contrast in the images
• Breast MRI is often used in women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer to determine the extent of the disease
• The patient lies on their stomach with their breasts thru an opening
• The table moves into the scanner tunnel and when you hear a loud tapping noise the test has begun
• A set of images is taken
• The contrast is then administered to the patient thru and IV in the arm and a second set of images is taken
• Its important for the patient to lie still during the test to obtain clear images
• A normal test takes 20-40 minutes
• An abbreviated MRI can take as little as 10 minutes

There is nothing scary about this test and although test anxiety is a real thing, don’t let it prevent you from getting quality care.