MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)-guided breast biopsy is a non-radiation, minimally invasive technique used to gather tissue samples from a breast abnormality. Sometimes these abnormalities turn out not to be a problem. If there is a potential problem, early detection is essential.
Just as with a breast MRI, radio frequencies and a strong magnet are used in conjunction with contrast material to create highly detailed pictures of the breasts. The images help guide the radiologist to the site in question.
After the initial series of images have been taken, a contrast fluid might be administered intravenously through a small IV catheter. Additional images will then be taken after the contrast injection.
Once the abnormality is located, a radiologist will clean the area and inject a local anesthetic into the skin and deeper tissues to numb the area. A very small skin will be made.
The radiologist will then use imaging techniques to locate the abnormality and extract several tissue samples to be sent to and interpreted by a pathologist. After the tissue is removed a small metallic marker will be placed. This marker is a reference point for future workups if needed, and confirms that the area of concern has been biopsied. Following your procedure, you will be given a mammogram to document the position of the marker.
Most patients experience some minor discomfort during this procedure.
The obtained specimens will be sent to a pathology laboratory. Once the results are provided by the lab, which may take a few days, a final results report is sent to your referring provider, who will then explain the results and answer any follow up questions.
The Carol Milgard Breast Center is fully accredited in Breast MRI by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR only grants the gold seal of accreditation when a breast center provides patients the highest level of image quality and patient safety.
Find out more
Read our Fast Facts for answers to your questions.
- What will my MRI-guided biopsy be like?
- How do I prepare for an MRI-guided biopsy?
- My doctor told me I needed to get more tests. Why?
- What are some of the risk factors associated with breast cancer?
- Why is early detection so important?
