Going For an MRI? Here’s What to Expect

If you have been told to get a breast MRI and are feeling anxious and uncertain, fret not. Getting an MRI for the first time can be an intimidating experience if you do not know what to expect, but it does not have to be this way. Knowing and understanding the procedure beforehand can make the whole experience less unnerving.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technology that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce 3D anatomical images for medical purposes. A breast MRI may be recommended for women at a high risk of getting breast cancer and for some women already diagnosed with breast cancer. MRI is less common than other imaging tests such as mammograms and ultrasounds. Knowing what to expect from a breast MRI may help reduce anxiety if you are getting one.

Learn more: A Closer Look at Breast MRI

Before the MRI scan, you may be asked about several safety issues such as:

• If you have had any previous operations.
• if you are unable to lie down for an extended period of time (approximately 30 to 60 minutes)
• if you are claustrophobic and unable to stay in confined spaces. You may be given sedative medication to help keep you relaxed during the scan.
• If you are pregnant.
• If you have had an allergic reaction to contrast agents (dye that is injected into the body to increase image clarity) that require medical attention. If so, medication may be given before the scan to counter the allergic reaction.

You will also be asked if you have any metal in your body such as:

• Metal implants or objects in your body, such as pacemakers, implantable defibrillators, surgical clips, pins or plates, cochlear implants, and metal fragments anywhere in your body, including dental fillings and bridges.
• Tattoos or permanent makeup that may have iron fillings.
• Bullet wounds or any metallic fragments that may be in the body.

Some of these may still be safe to have the MRI scan. Notify your doctor and radiographer about any metals in your body, and they will decide if getting an MRI is safe for you.

Right before the MRI scan, you will be instructed to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, hair accessories, removable dental work, hearing aids, body piercings, and anything else that may interfere with the scan. You will then be given a gown to change into. If a contrast is necessary, an intravenous (IV) line will be placed in your arm for the injection.

For the actual scan, you will lie on your front on a padded scan table that slides into the scan machine. The technologist will leave the room once you are positioned correctly and ready to proceed.

They will continue to monitor you through a window or monitor from another room and will still be able to communicate with you through an intercom. Rest assured that you will still be able to voice out any discomforts or concerns that you have at any point during the procedure, if necessary.

During the scan, you should expect the MRI machine to make very loud noises throughout, but you will be given earplugs or a headset to block out those noises. It is important to remain very still so as not to blur the images. You may be instructed at certain points during the scan to hold your breath for a few seconds.

If contrast is given, you may have some mild and temporary side effects. Common side effects include headaches, a metallic taste in the mouth, slight dizziness and a warm feeling. If you have more serious side effects such as breathing difficulties, heart palpitations and numbness, you should inform the technologist immediately.

When the scan is finished, the table will slide out and the staff will help you off. If contrast was used, the IV line will be removed and you may be told to wait for about 15 minutes for monitoring in case of any lingering side effects. Breastfeeding individuals who were given the contrast may be advised to stop breastfeeding for up to 24 hours. Any pumped breast milk will also need to be discarded until breastfeeding resumes. If sedatives were given for the scan, you may be required to rest before leaving and to avoid driving until the sedatives wear entirely off.

Generally, no special type of care is needed after an MRI and you can resume your diet and lifestyle after the scan unless special instructions are given. The results of the scan will normally be ready in one to two weeks.

The idea of undergoing an MRI can be daunting for some individuals. But it is worth noting that despite the slight discomfort, it is a generally painless procedure that can offer considerable advantages in identifying breast cancers and monitoring treatment progress. It is perfectly normal to feel apprehensive, but an MRI is one of the most helpful tools in ensuring the best possible outcome for surviving breast cancer.