611 MRI•CT – Altoona
2950 Fairway Drive, Altoona, PA 16602
Tel: 814-946-8000 Fax: 814-946-8002
Be Sure...MRI Breast Imaging
After Mammography
MRI Breast Imaging gives you the reassurance that your diagnosis is as accurate as possible.
If you are over 40 or at high risk for breast cancer, you probably get a mammogram every year, as recommended by the American Cancer Society. For many women, a mammogram isn’t enough. In fact the American Cancer Society recommends that women classified as high risk for breast cancer get an annual MRI scan.
MRI Imaging of the Breast can:
- Detect small lesions sometimes missed by mammography.
- Image the dense breast tissue common in younger women.
- Depict the tissue around breast implants or scar tissue.
- Evaluate abnormalities detected by mammography.
- Assess the effects of chemotherapy.
- Provide additional information needed for treatment decisions.
MRI exams are done on an outpatient basis. Your Breast MRI must be scheduled within 3 months of your last mammogram. It is important that you bring those films and reports to your appointment. If you are pre-menopausal your appointment must be scheduled between days 7 and 12 of your cycle. Before your exam you will be asked to change into a dressing gown and will be given an individual dressing room with lockers for your personal belongings. Prior to the exam you may eat or drink as you normally do.
For an MRI of the breasts, you will lie face down on the moveable exam table, with your breasts positioned into cushioned openings. A padded table automatically moves you feet first into the MRI. Your head is at the opening of the unit. MRI exams are painless because there is no compression of the breast and MRI uses no radiation. A contrast material is injected into an IV line after an initial series of scans.
The imaging session lasts approximately 30 minutes. A specialized radiologist analyzes the images and sends a report to your physician, who will share the results with you.
All major insurances are accepted. Some insurances may require a prior authorization. You may be responsible for a co-payment. Cash, personal check, Visa, Discover, and MasterCard are accepted.
