Reasons why your doctor ordered a Breast MRI

An MRI of the breast is a specialized study typically performed for the following reasons:

• In combination with annual mammograms for women at high risk.
• To further evaluate breast tissue if suspicion of cancer cannot be ruled out on a mammogram and/or ultrasound.
• To further evaluate a breast lump or mammography finding that might be cancerous.
• To define the extent of a known breast tumor.

For non-urgent exams, we recommend scheduling your MRI within 7-10 days after the first day of your menstrual period. We also recommend all hormone therapy be discontinued for three months prior to non-urgent exams. Please discuss this option with your physician prior to setting your appointment date.

A member of our staff will contact you prior to your appointment date for pre-registration and confirmation.

It is important to provide our technologists and radiologists with all existing imaging resources and data prior to your MRI. For this reason we ask that during pre-registration you provide information on all of your prior imaging studies, mammograms, and any biopsies you may have had.

Contact your insurance company regarding benefits and coverage prior to your appointment date. Please bring your insurance information to your appointment.

No preparation is required on the day of your exam. Eat normally and take any medication as usual.

If you require a mild oral sedative to be comfortable in the MRI scanner, please make arrangements with your physician and plan to have someone drive you to and from your appointment.

What to expect during your breast exam:

You’ll need to remove any metal you are wearing (i.e. jewelry, watch, hearing aids). We will provide comfortable clothing for your use during the exam. We also offer heated robes for your comfort.

Our expert staff will make sure you are as comfortable as possible during every phase of the exam. Should you have any concerns, you will be able to communicate with the technologists throughout the exam.

An IV tube will be placed in your arm to deliver the contrast agent. Lying on your stomach, your breasts will rest in a recessed chamber with no compression (pressure).

It is important to remain still for approximately 25 minutes as motion will blur the image.

Your healthcare provider may also request a chest MRI exam, which takes an additional 20 minutes, lying on your back.

During the exam you will hear loud thumping noises but will feel no physical sensations. The sound is normal for all MRI scanners. Earplugs and music headphones are available if you choose to use them. We offer a wide selection of music, and you are also welcome to bring your own audio CD.

The MRI scanner has adequate space for most people. If you have difficulty with confined areas, please call us in advance at 541-608-0350.

After our radiologists interpret your MRI results, OAI will forward a report to your doctor who will make a diagnosis and if necessary, develop a treatment plan.