Photo of Dr. Steven Harms and the Aurora Breast MRI available at The Breast Center of Northwest Arkansas

Breast MRI

The Breast Center of Northwest Arkansas was the first facility in the state to have dedicated breast MRI equipment, demonstrating our commitment to having the most advanced technological equipment available for diagnosis. The magnet power was increased recently, providing better resolution on the MRI films.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging technology that uses a strong magnet and radiofrequency waves to produce pictures or "images" of your internal organs and structures. Each MRI produces hundreds of images of the breast from side-to-side, top-to-bottom, and front-to-back. The images are then interpreted by a radiologist. Because MRI allows us to see inside
your body from any angle with great clarity, it gives us a wealth of information more quickly and, in many cases, more economically than past tests and exploratory surgeries.

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.

Breast MRI Facts :

• It uses no X-ray radiation
• It does not require uncomfortable breast compression.
• It does require the injection of a small amount of clear liquid (contrast medium) into the blood stream during one phase of the examination to provide a functional analysis of breast tissue (blood flow related to the presence of Breast Tumors (Cancer).
• It is uniquely suited for a number of indications that may be limited with Mammography. (See indications)

More on Breast MRI

• Clinical Indications
• Patient information
• Breast MRI FAQ's
• Breast MRI-Guided Biopsy
• References