Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Breast - Homerton ...

Breast MRI is not used for a routine breast cancer screening, but clinical trials(research studies) are being performed to see if MRI is valuable for screeningcertain women, such as young women with a high risk of breast cancer.MRI cannot always accurately distinguish between cancer and non-cancerousbreast conditions.Where is MRI scan performed?Breast MRI is a specialised investigation; we do not offer this service atHomerton University Hospital Trust. Our patients are referred to St.Bartholomew’s for their MRI breast scan.You will receive an appointment from St. Bartholomew’s University Hospital NHSTrust for your MRI scan. Along with your appointment letter they will also sendyou details of the x-ray (radiology) department.The scan is usually done as an outpatient procedure, which means that you cango home after your tests. During the scan it is important to lie still and breathenormally; you will be able to communicate with the technologist over an intercom.Who can have an MRI Scan?In some cases you may not be able to have the MRI test done.Before going for the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of your breast, informyour health professional and the radiologist if you:• Have a pacemaker, artificial limb, any metal pins or metal fragments inyour body (especially in the eyes), metal heart valves, metal clips in yourbrain, metal implants in your ear, tattooed eyeliner or metallic-basedtattoos, or any other implanted or prosthetic medical device (such as amedication infusion pump). Also, inform your health professional if youhave worked around metal or if you have recently had surgery on a bloodvessel.• You are pregnant or breast feeding unless there are specialcircumstances.• If you have a known allergy to the contrast (dye) used for MRI.• If you have other health conditions, such as serious kidney problems orsickle cell anemia, that may prevent you from having an MRI usingcontrast material.When I arrive?You will be shown to a private cubicle where you will be asked to take off yourouter garments and remove jewellery or any other metallic items you will have on