Breast detection using magnetic resonance imaging

In magnetic resonance imaging and breast cancer detection, gadolinium contrast agent is used to highlight lesions and their extent. Fat removal and removal techniques are used to minimize loss of visibility.

MRI screening of the general population is impractical due to its high cost and limited availability. Although MRI is at least 10 times more expensive than mammography, studies suggest that MRI may be the most cost-effective screening modality, especially in cases at high risk of breast cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging of the breasts is performed using specialized chest coils, usually a bilateral multichannel system. The MRI system can be a full body scanner with a 1.0T or larger magnet.

Such MRI scanners have a slice thickness of 2.5 mm or less and a single resolution of 1.3 mm or less. A high-end 1.5T scanner can achieve a Voxel size of 2mm or less.

Sensitivity to MRI for breast lesions is high, but its specificity is not sufficient. Therefore, MRI-guided biopsies are often performed for histological examinations. Two different methods of MRI-guided intervention are used:

1. The freehand technique that allows the cable to be located within 10 to 5 mm of the lesion
2. The stereotactic approach that provides much better precision ct scan cost.

There are several biopsy devices on the market, including: coaxial core needle system, stereotactic system, biopsy controller and vacuum assisted core biopsy gun. Standard body scanners can be used to make magnetic resonance imaging of the breasts if the appropriate coils are available. These types of systems benefit from greater versatility in the radiology department.

Currently, dedicated machines are available. The advantage of these machines is that they are tailor made for MRI breast, and therefore patient comfort is optimized. The staff working with these scanners will specialize in the needs of this particular group of patients.

Standard 1.5T multi-use MRI scanners cost between $ 1.1 and $ 1.9 million. Dedicated breast MRI scanners cost between $ 1.4 million and $ 1.8 million.

All MRI scanners require an investment in physical space, operating costs, maintenance and personnel. A dedicated breast scanner requires almost the same cost.