MRI Guided Breast Biopsy

Taking a breast biopsy guided in real-time by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is the latest development and an important advance in diagnosing breast cancer. The technology allows the radiologist to take the biopsy in the MR suite. This streamlines the diagnostic process and in some cases makes it possible to biopsy suspicious tissue that would otherwise have been very difficult to target.

Alternative to Surgical Biopsy

MR-guided breast biopsy is usually a preferred alternative to surgical biopsy. It is used when ultrasound or mammogram (stereotactic) guided biopsy is not appropriate because the area of concern is not well seen by mammogram or ultrasound. Sometimes, MR-guided biopsy is called for when an abnormality is seen only on a breast MR and cannot be visualized by ultrasound or mammogram.

About the Procedure

Guided by MR imaging, the doctor places a needle into the suspicious area and removes a sample. A core needle, which removes a small, cylindrical-shaped tissue sample, is used. The procedure requires only a topical anesthetic and leaves little to no scarring. MR-guided breast biopsy costs less than a surgical biopsy, can be done in less than an hour and has no potential complications.

American Cancer Society Calls Announces New Recommendations Calling for MRI in Breast Cancer - new guidelines for MRI screening for breast cancer in high risk women. [download article]