What is an Abbreviated Breast MRI?
Abbreviated Breast MRI is an adjunct exam to screening mammography. This service is an extension of CRL Women’s Imaging and performed at our CRL Imaging Plymouth location. It takes about 15 minutes, one-third of the time when compared to a standard Breast MRI.
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Benefits for Patients
- Excellent scan for detecting early stages of breast cancer
- No Radiation
- Supplemental to mammography
- Short scan time
- No referrals needed
- Online appointments available HERE
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Benefits for Providers
- Excellent scan for those with dense breast tissue
- Out of Pocket Cost – Call for Quote
- Easy referrals using our online referral form HERE
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Who should have an Abbreviated Breast MRI?
It is ideal for women who have had a normal or benign mammogram in the last 12 months. It is an excellent tool for detecting breast cancer, especially in patients with dense breast tissue (found on your screening mammography results letter). While insurance does not currently cover this exam, CRL offers it at a reduced out of pocket cost. This service is an extension of CRL Women’s Imaging. The MRI is performed at our CRL Imaging Plymouth location.
How should I prepare for the exam?
Please arrive 15-30 minutes before your exam to complete our MRI questionnaire. You will be asked to change into a gown and remove all metal objects such as jewelry, hairpins, glasses and dentures. Your technologist will review the questionnaire with you and discuss any questions or concerns. If you are claustrophobic, it is recommended to consult your primary care provider for a prescription to be taken prior to your exam.
During the exam
The technologist will escort you to the exam room, and an IV will be started. You will lie on your abdomen on a cushioned platform. Your arms will either be placed by your side or extended above your head. Once you are positioned, the platform will then move into a tube-like area open on both ends. After initial images are obtained, contrast (gadolinium) will be given through your IV, and additional images will be taken.
Follow-up
A dedicated breast imaging radiologist will interpret your MRI and the results will be available to you and your primary care provider. If you were given a prescription for claustrophobia, a driver is required to take you home.