What is a Fast Breast MRI?

Available at our Blue Ridge and Cary locations, Fast Breast MRI is a screening tool used for average-risk women with dense breasts. While mammography has been proven to be an effective tool in detecting cancers, finding cancers in a denser breast can be more challenging. A 15-minute breast MRI exam called Fast Breast MRI can provide more detail when used in conjunction with a 3-D mammogram in women with dense breasts. There is no radiation used with this imaging procedure, but imaging contrast is used.

What are dense breasts?

Breast density describes the amount of fibrous and glandular tissue in a woman’s breasts compared with the amount of fatty tissue in the breasts. Fibrous and glandular tissues appear white on a mammogram as does a possible tumor which means dense tissue can hide cancers.

There are four types of density ranging from least to most dense: (A) fatty, (B) Scattered, (C) Heterogeneously Dense, and (D) Extremely Dense. Women with the breast density categories Heterogeneously Dense and Extremely Dense are considered to have dense breast tissue. Women with less dense breasts may benefit from the Fast Breast MRI Screening as well but to a lesser degree.

Is this a Screening or a Diagnostic test?

Taking about 15 minutes to perform, it’s called “fast“ because the screening takes less time than traditional breast MRI which takes about 45 minutes. Women who have dense breasts and lower lifetime risk factors who do not qualify for a standard breast MRI Study may find peace of mind with this option.

As it is a screening exam, it’s important to note that a Fast Breast MRI does not detect the full range of diseases that a conventional breast MRI would identify. Breast MRI does not replace the recommendation for annual screening mammography, but is used as an additional screening study to detect early breast cancer.  As with any screening study, non-cancerous lesions may be detected which may require follow-up including a recommendation for additional imaging and possible biopsy.

How often would I need this screening?

Board-certified breast interventional radiologist Julie Taber, MD recommends that for women with dense breasts, an annual Fast Breast MRI is an important tool when used in conjunction with a screening mammogram. The procedure can be scheduled annually with the screening mammogram for one trip, or it could be staggered 6 months apart so any changes could be detected earlier. Speak with your physician about the best option for you.

How to schedule a Fast Breast MRI

A physician’s order is required for this screening. Appointments can be made at our Blue Ridge or Cary location through our Scheduling Team by calling (919) 781-1437.

The Fast Breast MRI is currently not covered by insurance. Raleigh Radiology offers this screening at a reduced self-pay price of $399.

Note to Providers: the CPT Code for Fast Breast MRI is 77049-52.