MRI Scan Guide
Overview
A breast MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to produce detailed images of breast tissue. It is typically used as a supplement to mammography, not a replacement, and is most valuable for high-risk screening, evaluating the extent of known breast cancer, and assessing implants.
Breast MRI is more sensitive than mammography at detecting breast cancer in dense breast tissue and in women with a high lifetime risk. However, it has a higher false-positive rate, so it is generally reserved for specific clinical indications rather than routine screening.
The scan requires intravenous contrast (gadolinium) and takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. It is painless and does not involve compression like a mammogram.
The procedure
You lie face-down on the scanner table, with your breasts positioned in a dedicated breast coil that contains openings for imaging. An intravenous line is placed for contrast injection. The table slides into the scanner, and pre-contrast images are acquired. Contrast is then injected, and additional images are taken to show areas of increased blood flow, which can indicate tumours. The total scan time is approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Diagnostic value
Preparation
If possible, schedule the scan between days 7 and 14 of your menstrual cycle to reduce background breast enhancement.
You may need a blood test to check kidney function before contrast administration.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal fastenings.
Remove all jewellery and bra before the scan.
Inform the radiographer if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Breast MRI is not recommended for all women. Current guidelines recommend it for women with a 20% or higher lifetime risk of breast cancer based on family history or genetic testing (BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations), a history of chest radiation between ages 10 and 30, or certain hereditary cancer syndromes. It is also used to evaluate newly diagnosed breast cancer, assess treatment response, and evaluate breast implants.
Mammography remains the standard screening tool for breast cancer. It is faster, less expensive, and has a well-established track record. Breast MRI is more sensitive but less specific, meaning it detects more abnormalities but also flags more benign findings that may require additional workup. The two modalities are complementary: mammography provides broad screening, and MRI provides detailed evaluation when indicated.
Understanding your results
Every Mira scan comes with two reports. A medical report from a radiologist for your doctor, and a miraclarity report for you. The miraclarity report explains your breast MRI findings in straightforward language with visual guides, severity indicators, and recommended next steps.
No jargon. No waiting for another appointment just to understand what your scan found. miraclarity is included free with every scan.
They serve different purposes. Mammography is the standard screening tool. Breast MRI is more sensitive and is used in specific clinical situations such as high-risk screening or evaluating the extent of known cancer.
A breast MRI typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.
No. Unlike mammography, breast MRI does not compress the breast. You may feel a brief pinch when the IV contrast line is placed.
Yes. MRI is the most accurate imaging method for detecting silicone breast implant rupture. Special MRI sequences are used specifically for implant evaluation.
A knee MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the knee joint. Unlike X-rays, which show only bones, MRI reveals soft tissues including ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and the meniscus. This makes it the primary diagnostic tool for knee injuries and conditions.
A brain MRI produces highly detailed images of the brain, brainstem, and surrounding structures. It is the preferred imaging method for evaluating neurological symptoms because it provides superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT and does not use ionizing radiation.
A lumbar spine MRI produces detailed images of the lower back, including the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding soft tissues. It is the most accurate non-invasive method for diagnosing causes of lower back pain.
A shoulder MRI provides highly detailed images of the rotator cuff, labrum, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bones of the shoulder joint. It is the most reliable non-invasive method for diagnosing shoulder injuries.