Clinique Pasteur Tunis
Breast MRI
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Breast MRI

Breast MRI in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Breast MRI in Tunis: a complement to mammography and ultrasound, for breast cancer assessment, enhanced screening or breast implants.

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What is it?

Breast MRI is a complementary test: it does not replace mammography or ultrasound, but provides additional information when these tests are not enough. It is very sensitive for detecting lesions in both breasts. It is used in the assessment of breast cancer before treatment, for screening women at high risk (significant family history, genetic predisposition), to check the condition of breast implants, or to resolve a doubt between the other tests. An injection of contrast agent (gadolinium) is usual. In women who have not reached menopause, the examination is preferably scheduled in the first half of the cycle, for more reliable images.

When is it indicated?

Breast cancer assessment before treatment

It specifies the size of the tumour and looks for other lesions in the same breast or the other breast.

Screening of high-risk women

In case of genetic predisposition or significant family history, it is added to mammography on the doctor's advice.

Checking breast implants

It is the most reliable test to look for a leak or rupture of an implant.

Persistent doubt after mammography and ultrasound

It helps reach a conclusion when the other tests cannot.

Monitoring response to chemotherapy

It measures how the tumour changes during treatment given before surgery.

Preparation

1Remove jewellery, watch, piercings, hair clips, bank cards and any metal object before entering the scanner room
2Tell us in advance about any pacemaker or defibrillator, implant (cochlear implant, neurostimulator, pump), surgical clip, heart valve, prosthesis or metal fragment: some are MRI-compatible, others are not
3Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be
4Let us know if you are afraid of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia): the team will support you and your doctor can prescribe a mild sedative
5If an injection is planned, tell us about any kidney disease, allergy or past reaction to a contrast agent; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
6If you still have periods, give the date of your last period: the appointment is preferably set in the first half of the cycle
7Be sure to bring your previous mammograms, ultrasounds and any biopsy results

Procedure

1

You change in a cubicle and put your metal objects in a locker

2

A drip is placed in your arm

3

You lie on your front, with your breasts placed in a hollow coil designed for this purpose, arms by your sides or above your head

4

The contrast agent is injected during the examination; it is important not to move between series

5

The scanner makes loud, repetitive noises while the images are being taken: headphones or earplugs are provided

6

You stay in contact with the team through a microphone and a call bell that you hold in your hand

7

After the examination, you can return to your usual activities straight away

Duration

About 20 to 30 minutes

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

No X-rays: MRI does not use ionising radiation
Not possible with a pacemaker, defibrillator or implant that is not MRI-compatible, or with a metal foreign body in the eye
Allergic reaction to gadolinium: rare, and usually mild (redness, itching)
In case of severe kidney failure, the gadolinium injection is avoided or adjusted by the doctor
MRI may show findings that need a follow-up examination or a biopsy, even though they often turn out to be benign
During pregnancy, MRI is only performed if it is really useful, and usually without an injection
You may feel enclosed inside the tunnel; the examination can be stopped at any time

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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Request your quote online or call us on the number below:

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Radiology centre direct line+216 36 402 036Clinic switchboard+216 36 402 000

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