Breast MRI

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Breast MRI provides detailed images of internal and soft tissue structures of the breast, which enables a range of diagnostic procedures including assessment of implants, high risk screening and more accurate staging and treatment planning.

Breast Density

Breast density refers to the makeup of breast tissue which can only be determined through a mammogram. Breasts are made up of fibroglandular tissue and fatty tissue. When breasts have a lot of fibroglandular tissue, they can be judged as dense. A number of factors can affect breast density, such as age, menopausal status, the use of medications (such as menopausal hormone therapy), pregnancy and genetics.

Volumetric Breast Density scale

Breast density is classified into four categories, A-D; with categories C and D considered dense.
We use the internationally recognised breast density measurement tool Volpara to classify density.
Understanding breast density score enables a more personalised management approach to breast health, based on an individual’s risk factors.

Before your Examination

Please phone us for an appointment. We will discuss:

Details about your preparation before the scan including a period without food and drink.
A list of safety issues including if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, surgical clips, heart valves, prosthetic joints and the need to take your pain medication before you arrive. Click here to complete a Safety Checklist. It will automatically be sent to our MRI booking team.
Details about the examination itself.
ACC and insurance queries.
Post examination information.

Please let us know as soon as possible if there is any reason why you cannot keep your appointment.

Upon arrival:

You will have time to read about the examination, fill out a questionnaire as well as consent forms. In addition to a drink, insertion of an intravenous line may be necessary before your scan. A trained, experienced staff member will discuss the procedure with you. This is a good opportunity to ask any question you may have.

You will be asked to change into a gown and remove all metallic objects such as jewellery, dentures, hearing aids, etc.

Your Examination

If needed, you will have an intravenous line inserted. Our staff will position you on a bed that will gently move through the scanner, stopping to scan relevant areas. You will be asked to remain still throughout each of the 4-5 separate scans for up to twenty minutes. If you have difficulty lying flat, or are uncomfortable in confined spaces, the MRI staff will assist and make you more comfortable.

The Medical Radiation Technologist (MRT) or Radiographer will talk to you via a two-way intercom during the scan and let you know what is happening throughout. You can talk to the MRT at any time, even during the scan if you need to. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. The MRI machine makes a loud tapping noise while scanning (from the MRI coil movement) however you will be able to listen to music during the scan.