Resonancia magnética de mama 3 Teslas con IA | HC Marbella

Breast MRI

The imaging test with the highest sensitivity for detecting breast cancer

Breast MRI is an advanced imaging test that makes it possible to assess breast tissue in great detail and obtain information that mammogram or ultrasound cannot always provide on their own.

It can help to detect and characterise lesions, assess the extent of a cancer that has already been diagnosed, monitor response to treatment and evaluate the condition of breast implants.

At HC Marbella, we perform this scan using a 3-Tesla MRI scanner with artificial intelligence, which provides high-definition images in less time.

Breast MRI complements mammogram and ultrasound, but does not replace them. Also, it does not use ionising radiation.

What is breast MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of both breasts.

In most scans aimed at detecting or assessing lesions, an intravenous gadolinium-based contrast agent is administered. This contrast agent allows us to assess tissue behaviour and evaluate any suspicious areas with greater precision.

Key features of the test:

Non-invasive.
Radiation-free.
No breast compression.
Capable of examining both breasts in a single scan.

MRI with artificial intelligence

What information does breast MRI provide?

Greater clarity. Less time.

Artificial intelligence optimises image acquisition, making the scan faster, more comfortable and more precise.

Faster examination: Reduces the time spent inside the scanner.
More precise images: Improves clarity and level of detail.
Greater comfort: A shorter scan can help reduce feelings of claustrophobia.
More efficient appointments: Enables the optimisation of scan scheduling.

What information does it provide?

A breast MRI scan makes it possible to:

Identify lesions that are not clearly visible on other tests.
Determine their size and location.
Check whether there are other lesions in the same breast.
Examine the contralateral breast.
Assess whether surrounding structures may be affected.
Evaluate the tumour’s response to treatment.
Examine changes in a surgical scar.
Check the integrity of breast implants.
Help decide on further tests if a suspicious finding is detected.

When is it indicated?

Women at high risk of breast cancer

It is recommended for women with:

Inherited mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.
An estimated lifetime risk of breast cancer of 20% or higher.
A significant family history of breast cancer.
Previous chest radiotherapy at a young age.
Extremely dense breasts, in combination with other risk factors.

Following a breast cancer diagnosis

When a biopsy confirms cancer, an MRI scan helps to determine:

The size and location of the tumour.
The possible presence of other foci.
The condition of the contralateral breast.
The relationship of the lesion to surrounding tissues.
The extent of the disease prior to surgery.

Treatment monitoring

It allows for a comparison of images taken before and after treatment to assess how the tumour is responding, and helps the medical team plan the next steps with greater precision.

Findings requiring further investigation

When a mammogram or ultrasound scan does not provide a clear explanation for a finding.

When there is a discrepancy between the test results and the clinical examination.

Important note: in women at high risk, an MRI scan is usually carried out alongside a mammogram as part of a personalised monitoring programme; it does not replace it. The final decision is made by your specialist based on your medical history and previous test results.

Not sure which test you need? Find out more about breast diagnostic imaging.

Breast MRI with implants

MRI makes it possible to check the integrity of silicone implants and detect any potential ruptures or leaks.

When the aim is solely to evaluate the implant, there is a specific protocol that usually does not require contrast. If it is also necessary to assess the breast tissue, a different protocol will be used.

What does the BI-RADS classification mean?

The results are reported using the international BI-RADS classification system, which is also used for mammograms and ultrasounds.

BI-RADS 1: no abnormalities.
BI-RADS 2: benign finding.
BI-RADS 3: probably benign; monitoring may be required.
BI-RADS 4: suspicious finding; may require a biopsy.
BI-RADS 5: highly suspicious finding.
BI-RADS 6: cancer previously confirmed by biopsy.

Important note: the BI-RADS result is not a diagnosis in itself. A suspicious finding (BI-RADS 4 or 5) does not necessarily mean cancer; it indicates that further investigation is required, which may include an ultrasound, a biopsy, or ongoing monitoring. Your specialist will interpret the result alongside the rest of your test results.

How is the test performed?

During the scan, you will lie face down on an examination table. Your breasts are positioned in specific slots that allow images to be taken without compressing them.

The test is painless, although it is important to remain still. In scans aimed at detecting or characterising lesions, an intravenous contrast agent is usually administered.

The duration depends on the required protocol. You will be able to communicate with the radiographer throughout the whole scan.

How should you prepare?

Before the test, it is essential to inform us if you:

Have a pacemaker, prosthesis or any metal devices.
Have kidney disease.
Have previously had a reaction to a contrast agent.
Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Suffer from claustrophobia.
Have breast implants.
Have recently undergone a breast biopsy or surgery.

For women who are still menstruating, it may be recommended that the scan be performed at a specific stage of the cycle.

It is also important to bring along previous mammograms, ultrasounds, MRI scans and reports so that the results can be compared.

3 Tesla breast MRI

Why choose a 3T breast MRI

High-definition imagesIt allows the breast tissue to be visualised in great detail.

No radiationIt uses a magnetic field and radio waves, not X-rays.

No breast compressionThe scan is performed lying face down, without compressing the breast tissue.

Assessment of both breastsIt allows both the affected breast and the contralateral breast to be assessed in a single scan.

Useful in complex casesIt can provide additional information when other tests are inconclusive.

More accurate treatment planningIt helps to determine the extent of a lesion and guide treatment planning.

Do you need a breast MRI? Book an appointment with our Breast Unit.

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An expert team behind every image

Technology makes an important difference, but it is our clinical team that turns it into a reliable diagnosis.

With you at every stage of the test
Our radiographers will explain each step of the scan so that you feel calm and reassured.

The image is only the first step
To turn the image into an accurate diagnosis, it must be interpreted by a radiologist specialising in breast imaging.

Coordinated care
The Radiology Department works alongside the other specialists in the Breast Unit to help decide on the next steps.

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Breast Unit

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a breast MRI scan replace a mammogram?

No. They are complementary tests that provide different information. The specialist will decide which tests are necessary in each case.

Does it use radiation?

No. An MRI scan uses a magnetic field and radio waves.

Is the test painful?

No, it is painless and does not compress the breast. However, lying face down while remaining still may be slightly uncomfortable.

Is a contrast agent always used?

Tests designed to detect or assess lesions usually require contrast. However, when evaluating implants alone, a protocol without contrast may be used.

Can I have a breast MRI scan if I have breast implants?

Yes. MRI can be used both to assess breast tissue and to evaluate the condition of silicone implants.

Does a finding mean I have cancer?

Not necessarily. MRI can also reveal benign abnormalities. The radiologist will advise whether monitoring or further investigation is required.

Should I bring my previous test results?

Yes. Comparing current images with previous tests helps to interpret the findings more accurately.