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Q&A: Your breast exam with Aurora Breast MRI
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Q:
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What Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?
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A:
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MRI is a sophisticated technology that uses a computer, magnetic field and
radio waves - instead of x-rays - to produce images of the soft tissues in the
body. MRI has been safely used for decades to provide information to help in the
early diagnosis and treatment of disease.
MRI of the breasts has emerged as a new technique in the evaluation of breast
disease. When used in conjunction with conventional x-ray mammography, breast
MRI can provide valuable information for the detection and characterization of
breast disease. MRI doesn't replace mammography - it's a different imaging
technique that provides additional information.
Nationally recognized breast centers currently perform breast MRI for a
number of reasons including:
· Diagnosis of breast implant rupture
· Surgical planning
· Staging of breast cancer and treatment planning
· Post-surgery and post-radiation follow-up
· Dense breast tissue evaluation
· Monitoring of high-risk patients with a non-radiation alternative
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Q:
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What Is A Breast MRI Exam Like? |
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A:
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The Aurora is designed specifically for your comfort as a woman. During the
exam, you will lie on your stomach with your breasts placed in openings in the
Aurora examination table so that they're suspended away from your chest. Unlike
conventional x-ray mammography, breast MRI doesn’t require your breasts to be
compressed, so you shouldn't experience any discomfort. Plus, you'll enter the
machine feet-first, which reduces feelings of claustrophobia sometimes
associated with full-body MRI scanners.
You'll receive an injection (usually in the arm) of a contrast enhancement
agent called gadolinium that helps to highlight various structures in breast
tissue. The gadolinium is administered through a small intravenous catheter,
which is placed by a certified technologist.
An initial scan will be taken and then repeated after the gadolinium is
administered. For best results, you should lie very still, relax and breathe
normally. The technologist can see and hear you at all times. The entire exam
takes about 45 minutes.
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Q:
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How Do I Prepare for the Test? |
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A:
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No special preparation is required. You can eat and drink as you normally
would, engage in regular activities, and take any prescription medication.
Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before your appointment time. You'll be asked
to change into a gown since belts, zippers, snaps and thread in clothing may
contain metal that disturbs MRI signals. We'll ask you questions before you
enter the MRI exam room to confirm that you don't have any metal in or on your
body. You'll have to remove all metallic objects such as jewelry, glasses,
hairpins and dentures (personal belongings can be locked in a locker). Please be
sure to tell the technologist if you have metal implants, a cardiac pacemaker,
permanent dental bridges, braces or other metal objects.
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Q:
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What About After the Test? |
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There are no side- or after-effects with MRI, so you can resume your normal
activities as soon as your exam is over. The radiologist will interpret your MRI
scan and report the findings to your doctor.
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Q:
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Does Insurance Cover Breast MRI? |
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A:
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Most major health insurance carriers cover breast MRI. If your health plan
requires you to have a written referral for this type of exam, please be sure to
obtain the necessary paperwork prior to your appointment so that we can bill
your carrier directly.
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Q:
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Other Questions? |
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A:
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If you have any questions about breast MRI or your exam, please call us at
(714) 456-8198 between 8.00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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