“DRA, in my experience, is superior to other imaging facilities in the area. All aspects of patient care and delivery of service are characterized by outstanding compassion.”
MRI Guided Breast Biopsy
MRI provides an accurate roadmap in the planning of various surgeries. In a breast biopsy, for example, a sterile needle is inserted with MRI guidance. The local area of the breast will be anesthetized and a needle is inserted into the area of concern. MRI images are obtained to confirm the placement of the needle and multiple samples of breast tissue are sent to the lab for analysis.
How to Prepare for an MRI Breast Guided Biopsy
- Wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing. You will need to remove all clothing and jewelry around the area of examination. You will be asked to change into a gown for the procedure.
- Before a needle biopsy, DRA Imaging's surgical nurse will contact you and review the procedure with you as well as verify your medical history and any medications you are currently taking. If you are on any blood thinners such as coumadin or heparin, ibuprofen, or aspirin therapy you will be asked to stop taking the regimen five days prior to the exam.
- Inform your doctor about any recent illness or other medical condition. You may want to have a friend accompany you to drive you home afterward.
How is MRI Guided Breast Biopsy Performed?
- You will lie face down on the MRI table. The affected breast will be positioned into openings of the coil.
- A nurse or technologist inserts an intravenous (IV) line into a vein in your hand or arm and a contrast material called gadolinium will be given intravenously.
- Your breast will be gently compressed between two plates. One of the two plates is equipped with a grid pattern to measure the position and depth of the mass to ensure placement of the needle accurately.
- A local anesthetic is injected into the breast to numb the area of the biopsy site.
- A small nick is made in the skin where the biopsy needle will be inserted.
- The Radiologist or Physician's Assistant will insert the needle toward the location of the mass; MR imaging is then used to verify the position of the needle.
- Once the area has been confirmed, multiple tissue samples will be obtained and sent to the laboratory for review and analysis.
- A small marker will be placed at the site for future reference.
- When the biopsy is completed, pressure is applied to stop any bleeding and the opening in the skin is covered with a dressing.
- A mammogram will be performed to confirm the position of the marker.
- This procedure can take approximately 2-3 hours.
Pregnancy Policy:
All patients of childbearing age (10 - 54) will be required to sign that there is No Chance of Pregnancy prior to an imaging exam being performed (Exception: - Ultrasound). If there is a chance of pregnancy, STAT blood work will be ordered prior to the procedure being performed to establish that there is no chance of pregnancy.
In the event, you are pregnant and the exam is deemed necessary by your physician, you will be shielded and monitored with a radiation badge.