Breast MRI Scan Referral

Breast MRI Scans are an important diagnostic tool for producing detailed images of breast tissue and structures. Breast MRI Scans are commonly used for the following:

Screening of women who are genetically proven to be at high risk of breast cancer

Breast MRI is recommended by NICE for women who have a strong family history of breast cancer, and is particularly useful for younger women whose breast tissue is too dense to allow traditional mammography to get a clear image.

Use in ascertaining the extent of previously discovered cancers and abnormalities in some patients

Breast MRI is recommended for some women who have had an abnormality detected by ultrasound or mammogram. It provides an exceptionally clear image of the abnormality and is not affected by dense breast tissue.

Additional evaluation of clinical findings e.g. from mammograms and ultrasound

Breast MRI is used to provide additional detail to mammography and ultrasound where an abnormality needs further evaluation, and can be used to determine whether a biopsy is needed.

Monitoring breast cancer treatment

When a tumour has been detected it is important to monitor it regularly, both to check that any cancer treatments are working effectively and that no new abnormalities appear in the breast. The clear images produced by MRI are ideal for this and are also a helpful tool for planning surgery.

Checking for whether silicone implants have burst

MRI is the best method of detecting ruptures in breast implants.

To refer a patient for a Breast MRI scan:

Please download the Referral Form, then follow our Referral Guide.