MRI

Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive imaging modality in the detection and local staging of primary breast cancer. Despite its high cancer detection rate, the use of MRI is recommended only where findings will alter clinical and/or surgical management of the patient and, as with any other imaging technique, its limitations must be kept in mind. MRI can be used as an adjunct to conventional breast imaging in the context of a multidisciplinary meeting or following discussion with a breast radiologist. MRI is the most accurate technique in the evaluation of implant integrity with a high sensitivity for rupture of 80–90%, and a specificity between 90% and 97%. Margins are very important in lesional assessment. The probability of malignancy in any MRI-detected lesion is higher if the lesion is also seen at ultrasound.