Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. MR imaging uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed or copied to CD.
MRI of the breast can be used to screen women at high risk for for breast cancer. In the screening setting it is used in conjunction with screening mammography. It is not a replacement for mammography.
MRI of the breast can be used as a tool for pre-surgical evaluation of patients with known breast cancer, and as a problem-solving tool when mammography and ultrasound do yield clear answers.