Rapid Screening Breast MRI
Rapid Screening Breast MRI is a new diagnostic tool designed for women with an intermediate risk of getting Breast Cancer and/or dense breasts on mammography. Rapid Screening Breast MRI increases the ability to detect cancer that may not be visualized on your Mammogram with many studies showing detection of an additional 16 cancers per 1000 women screened.
The exam includes IV Contrast for optimal imaging. The procedure will take approximately 10 minutes in the MRI scanner, much shorter than the standard Breast MRI of 35-45 minutes. The Rapid Screening Breast MRI exam is unfortunately not covered by insurances at this time and is considered a Self-Pay procedure.
Difference between a Screening Breast MRI and a Standard Breast MRI
Type of MRI
Insurance Coverage
Self-Pay
IV Contrast
Scan Time
Screening Breast MRI
No
Standard Breast MRI
Yes
Yes
Yes
Optional
Yes
10 Minutes
35-45 Minutes
Breast Cancer Risk Factor Categories for Standard Breast MRI and Rapid Screening Breast MRI
Risk Factor
Criteria
Medium
Normal Mammogram with risk factors such as family history or dense breasts
High
Women with BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes; immediate family history
Ordering standards for Breast MRI exams
Risk Factors
Exam Type
Normal
Standard Breast MRI wwo contrast
Medium
Rapid Screening Breast MRI wwo contrast
High
Standard Breast MRI wwo contrast
The MRI magnet field strength correlates with improved sensitivity of lesion detection which is why MRI of Reston is providing both Rapid Screening and Standard Breast MRI scans on our high-field 3T Wide Bore scanners. We know anxiety and discomfort may be a concern in breast imaging so MRI of Reston puts the focus on YOU. The Wide Bore scanner provides additional space within the scanner without reduction in resolution.
Anti-anxiety medication may be provided by your physician to help ease the anxiety in case of Claustrophobia or other concerns.
Results are read by one of our Fellowship Trained experienced Radiologists within hours of your exam for much faster results to your Physician.
Images are provided before leaving your appointment in case your Physician needs to view them directly. We are connected to Physicians throughout the Northern Virginia area but recommend bringing the CD with you to your follow-up appointment.