Breast MRI
Serving patients throughout NJ, The Breast Center at the RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center has acquired a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine, enhancing the continuum of care for women. The new machine will enable the Breast Center to seamlessly integrate MRI scans into patient care by providing scans on the premises improving patient flow, reducing wait times and increasing diagnostic reporting capabilities.
MRI of the breast is a non-invasive test that uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed images of the structures within the breast. Utilized in combination with other tests, such as mammogram or ultrasound, breast MRI is may be used for:
- Screening women who are at high risk for breast cancer. This risk may be due to family history and/or a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.
- Determining the extent of cancer after a new diagnosis of breast cancer. Breast MRI may be performed to determine how large the cancer is and whether it involves the underlying muscle. It may also be used to look for any other tumors that might be present in the breast, or to examine the opposite breast for possible tumors.
- Further evaluating abnormalities seen on mammography. Sometimes an abnormality found on a mammogram cannot be adequately evaluated by additional mammography and ultrasound alone. In these cases, breast MRI can be used for further evaluation.
- Evaluating lumpectomy sites. Scarring and recurrent cancer may look the same on mammography and ultrasound. Breast MRI can help distinguish between scar and tumor.
- Evaluating the effects of chemotherapy. For breast cancer patients who are treated with chemotherapy prior to surgery, breast MRI is often used to monitor whether chemotherapy is working, and how much tumor is still present before the surgery is performed.
- Evaluating breast implants. MRI is the test of choice for evaluating silicone implants.
MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy
An MRI-guided breast biopsy is useful when the breast MRI shows an abnormality, such as a suspicious mass or an area of distortion or abnormal tissue change. In this procedure, MRI guidance is used to identify the position of the abnormality and to verify placement of the biopsy needle. Tissue samples are removed and sent to the lab for examination.
Conveniently located at the RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center in Livingston, NJ, The Breast Center's goal is to exceed the individual expectations of each patient, to decrease the stress commonly associated with breast testing, and to promote breast health and wellness
Make an Appointment
To schedule a Breast MRI, please call 973-322-7888. You must have a prescription.
