Your trusted Radiology Partner
We offer the following services
ImagePro Radiology · Breast imaging
Breast MRI.
Detail that guides care.
Detailed breast imaging using a magnetic field and radio waves, without ionising radiation. Breast MRI provides additional information alongside mammography, tomosynthesis and ultrasound when recommended by your doctor.
Why it may be requested
A closer look at breast health.
- Additional screening for people assessed as being at high risk of breast cancer.
- Investigating cancer that may be difficult to identify with other imaging, including selected patients with dense breasts.
- Assessing the extent of a newly diagnosed breast cancer.
- Further assessment of selected abnormalities seen on mammography.
- Checking breast implant integrity.
- Assessing changes at a previous lumpectomy site.
- Monitoring response to chemotherapy given before surgery.
Your doctor and radiologist decide whether MRI is appropriate for the question being investigated.
Screening and family history
Understanding your risk.
Tell your doctor about breast or ovarian cancer on both sides of your family. Include which relatives were affected and their ages at diagnosis, especially a mother or sister diagnosed with breast cancer before 50.
Family history can also include aunts and cousins. Your clinician will assess the complete history and advise whether additional screening or genetic counselling is appropriate.
Before your appointment
Preparing for your breast MRI.
Booking and menstrual-cycle timing
Tell the branch the first day of your last menstrual period when booking. Cycle timing may affect the preferred appointment date; the team will confirm the appropriate timing for your examination.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and medical devices
Tell the team if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or are breastfeeding. Report any pacemaker, implanted device, breast tissue expander or metal in your body. Bring your device information or implant card if available so MRI safety can be checked before the scan.
HRT, contraception and other medicines
Tell the team about hormone replacement therapy, oral contraception and all other medicines. Ask whether any adjustment is necessary for your scan. Do not stop or change prescribed medication unless your treating clinician specifically advises you to do so.
Claustrophobia or anxiety
Contact the branch in advance if you are uncomfortable in enclosed spaces. If relaxation medication is prescribed, confirm the instructions and arrange for someone to drive you home.
Previous imaging and documents
Bring your signed referral, medical-aid details, and previous mammograms, breast ultrasound or MRI images and reports, particularly those performed at another facility.
Food, drink and contrast assessment
Ask the branch about eating and drinking instructions. Tell the team about kidney problems, previous contrast reactions, allergies and recent surgery so they can plan your examination.
During your examination
What to expect.
- 01Safety checks and changingYou will complete a screening questionnaire and change into a gown. The MRI radiographer will explain the procedure.
- 02Guidance throughoutThe radiographer operates the scanner from outside the examination room and can see, hear and speak to you during the scan.
- 03Contrast, when neededMany breast MRI examinations require an injection of contrast through a vein. A scan performed only to assess implant rupture may not require contrast.
- 04Let the team know how you feelReport discomfort or symptoms promptly. Contrast reactions are uncommon; the team will discuss relevant risks and answer your questions.
After your examination
Your results and next steps.
If you have not received sedation, you can usually return to your normal diet and activities, including driving, unless the team gives you different instructions.
If you have taken relaxation medication or received sedation, have someone drive you home and follow the recovery instructions provided.
A radiologist reviews your images and sends a report to your referring doctor, who will discuss what the findings mean for your care. Ask the branch how to access your images and report.
Sometimes further imaging or a biopsy is needed to clarify a finding; an MRI finding alone does not always mean cancer.
Speak to our team
Plan your breast MRI visit.
Contact your preferred branch to arrange an appointment and confirm preparation for the examination on your referral.
011 839 1607 / 08
After hours: 011 495 5000
Appointment enquiries
How can we help?
Select your branch and send an enquiry using the form below. Your appointment is only confirmed once the branch has contacted you.
More patient information: RadiologyInfo.org: Breast MRI ↗
Contact us:
Johannesburg:
Netcare Garden City Hospital
35 Bartlett Road, Mayfair West
011 839 1607/08 A/H 011 495 5000
Krugersdorp:
Netcare Krugersdorp Hospital
9 Burger Street, Krugersdorp
011 953 1384/6 A/H 011 951 0200
Head office:
15 Lawley Ave, Northcliff
Tel: 011 888 1700
Email: info@xraydev.co.za
