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Accelerated Breast MRI

What is an Accelerated Breast MRI?

Accelerated Breast MRI, also called abbreviated breast MRI (AB-MRI), is a shortened, streamlined version of a traditional breast MRI that takes just 10-15 minutes while providing the same exceptional cancer-detection capabilities. This fast, radiation-free imaging test uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of breast tissue, detecting cancers that mammograms often miss, especially in women with dense breasts.

Unlike traditional breast MRI, which can take 30-45 minutes, Accelerated Breast MRI focuses on the essential sequences needed for cancer detection, making it more convenient, more affordable, and more accessible for supplemental breast cancer screening.

Accelerated Breast MRI is particularly valuable for:

  • Women with dense breasts (where mammography has limited sensitivity)
  • Women at increased risk of breast cancer
  • Early detection of small, treatable cancers
  • Supplemental screening alongside annual mammography
  • Women with a personal or family history of breast cancer

Accelerated Breast MRI Services at American Health Imaging

American Health Imaging is in-network with 99% of insurance plans and offers Accelerated Breast MRI up to 60% less than hospital-based imaging.
Request an Accelerated Breast MRI Appointment

Accelerated Breast MRI Imaging Centers Near You

Find convenient Accelerated Breast MRI imaging at select American Health Imaging centers in Georgia. We offer same-day and next-day appointments with extended hours to match your schedule and needs.

Find Your Nearest Accelerated Breast MRI Imaging Center

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What is Accelerated Breast MRI used for?

Accelerated Breast MRI serves as a powerful supplemental screening tool that dramatically improves early breast cancer detection, particularly in women whose breast tissue is dense on mammography. Studies show that breast MRI detects cancers at earlier, more treatable stages and finds small invasive cancers that would be hidden on mammograms alone.

Accelerated Breast MRI is particularly valuable when:

  • You have dense breasts (heterogeneously dense or extremely dense breast tissue)
  • You’re at increased risk for breast cancer based on family history or genetics
  • You have a personal history of breast cancer
  • You want the most sensitive screening available alongside your mammogram
  • You need to evaluate breast implants for rupture or leakage
  • Your doctor needs additional information after an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound

Types of Accelerated Breast MRI Scans We Offer

A 1.2T High Field Open MRI is a type of Open MRI scanner that has a strong magnet (1.2 Tesla) and an open design, making it more comfortable for people who feel claustrophobic or have a larger body. The Open MRI has an open front and sides designed to provide increased comfort. The “high field” means it has a stronger magnetic field than some other MRI machines, which helps in getting more accurate images.

A 1.5T High Field MRI is a medical imaging machine that uses a strong magnetic field (1.5 Tesla) to create clear and detailed pictures of the inside of your body. The “high field” means it has a stronger magnetic field than some other MRI machines, which helps in getting more accurate images.

A 1.5T Wide Bore MRI is a type of medical imaging machine that uses a strong magnetic field (1.5 Tesla) to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. The “wide bore” part means the opening of the machine is larger at 27 ½” wide, making it more comfortable for people who feel anxious or are larger in size. Many of our 1.5T Wide Bore MRIs feature faster scanning technology to reduce most exams to 15 minutes.

A 16-slice CT scanner is a medical imaging machine that takes detailed X-ray pictures of your body in thin slices, which are then combined to create a complete image. The “16-slice” part means it can capture 16 slices of images at once, allowing for faster and more detailed scans.

3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, is an advanced x-ray technology that takes multiple images of breast tissue to create a 3-dimensional picture of the breast. It differs from traditional mammography in that traditional mammography yields only a single image. A 3D image of the breast allows for better assessment of masses and reduces the likelihood of a false positive or an unnecessary biopsy.

A 3T MRI is a medical imaging machine that uses an even stronger magnetic field (3 Tesla) to take very detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Because of its high strength, it can capture clearer images and is often used for more complex scans. Often used for prostates and different types of brain imaging. The “wide bore” part means the opening of the machine is larger at 27 ½” wide, making it more comfortable for people who feel anxious or are larger in size.

A 64-slice CT scanner is a medical imaging machine that takes very detailed X-ray pictures of your body by capturing 64 slices of images at once. This allows for faster scans and even more detailed images, which is useful for diagnosing complex conditions. Our 64-slice CT features innovative technology that automates dose according to your size, weight, and anatomy, providing high-quality images with minimal radiation.

ABUS Breast Cancer Screening uses sound waves to create 3D pictures of the breast tissue. ABUS breast cancer screening technology is specifically developed and FDA-approved for women with dense breast tissue.

An arthrogram visualizes the inside of a joint, such as the shoulder, knee, hip, or wrist. A contrast dye is injected into the joint to make the joint structures, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and the joint capsule, more visible on X-ray or MRI images.

Coronary Calcium CT – also called Cardiac Scoring – measures calcified (hard) plaque inside the arteries that can grow and restrict blood flow to the muscles of the heart identifying potential Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) before you have symptoms.

A DEXA scan is a medical imaging technique used to measure bone mineral density. It is commonly performed to diagnose osteoporosis or assess the risk of developing fractures as we age.

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) is a special type of MRI technique that helps doctors see the pathways of nerve fibers in the brain. By looking at these images, doctors can better understand how the brain’s wiring works and diagnose conditions like brain injuries, tumors, or diseases that affect these connections.

Faster scanning MRI technology reduces the time patients spend on the table for scans by up to 50% to an average scan time of less than 15 minutes providing a more comfortable imaging experience for anxious patients or anyone in pain. AI technology delivers high quality images with reduced motion artifacts and noise distortions for the diagnostic insights providers need to determine next steps in patient care.

Fluoroscopy uses injected contrast dye and an X-Ray machine to take a continuous series of X-rays instead of individual snapshots. It is most commonly used to evaluate parts of your body that are moving in order to create a short video of your body system in motion. It is particularly useful for observing the digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems and their functioning.

A screening mammography is a specialized X-ray of the breasts that takes images from different angles. These images can reveal abnormalities in breast tissues. This exam is annually recommended for all women over the age of 40.

Our MRI machines use a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to generate detailed images of organs, tissues, bones, and other structures inside the body. With a larger bore or tunnel-like opening compared to traditional MRI machines, our wide-bore MRI provides high quality images without compromising patient comfort.

Our MRI machines use a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to generate detailed images of organs, tissues, bones, and other structures inside the body. With a larger bore or tunnel-like opening compared to traditional MRI machines, our wide-bore MRI provides high quality images without compromising patient comfort.

Myelogram imaging is used to evaluate the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding structures in the spine with an injectable contrast dye to enhance the visibility of the spinal cord and nerves on X-ray images.

Specialty post processing technology used for brain MRI to assess brain volume and atrophy for neurological diseases including dementia, Alzheimers, seizures, MS lesions and Traumatic Brain Injuries.

The Open Upright MRI, also known as a stand-up MRI, is the only MRI scanner able to scan you in multiple positions, including sitting, standing, bending (for flexion and extension) or lying down. This unique MRI provides natural weight-bearing imaging and is helpful for your doctor to diagnose the area where you experience pain. The Open Upright MRI is open in front of you, behind you, and above you. This open design may be more comfortable for people who feel anxious or are larger in size.

A PET/CT (Positron emission tomography) is a non-invasive exam that uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiotracers to reveal how internal organs are functioning. The scan takes about 60 minutes and images are captured via CT as your body processes the radioactive material. This offers great insight into the root of the disease process or the source of symptoms.

What to Expect During Your Accelerated Breast MRI Appointment

During your Accelerated Breast MRI scan, you’ll change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry or metal objects. You’ll lie face-down on a padded table with your breasts positioned comfortably in cushioned openings, your arms extended above your head, and your head resting on a headrest. The table slides into the MRI machine, which is open at both ends.

A contrast agent (gadolinium) will be injected through an IV in your arm to help highlight any abnormal areas. The entire scan takes just 10-15 minutes, significantly shorter than a traditional breast MRI. During the scan, the machine makes rhythmic thumping and buzzing sounds (completely normal), and you’ll need to lie very still. Our technologists can see, hear, and speak with you throughout the procedure.

Key benefits of Accelerated Breast MRI:

  • Shorter scan time (10-15 minutes vs. 30-45 minutes)
  • More affordable than traditional breast MRI
  • Same excellent cancer detection capability
  • No radiation exposure

Why Choose American Health Imaging for Your Accelerated Breast MRI

American Health Imaging (AHI) is in-network with 99% of insurance plans for breast MRI and offers fast scheduling combined with state-of-the-art technology for convenience and accuracy.

  • Significant cost savings up to 60% compared to hospital breast MRI pricing
  • Faster scanning technology completes exams in just 10-15 minutes for maximum comfort and convenience
  • Convenient scheduling with same-day and next-day appointments available
  • Expert interpretation by fellowship-trained, subspecialty breast radiologists for accurate cancer detection
  • Comfortable, patient-centered environment with compassionate staff who understand breast health concerns
  • With a 97% patient satisfaction score, patients trust us for their breast imaging needs
  • Convenient locations in Georgia with easy access and ample parking

Schedule Your Accelerated Breast MRI Today

Scheduling your Accelerated Breast MRI scan with American Health Imaging is made easy in just a few steps:

  1. Get a referral from your doctor (required for insurance coverage)
  2. Choose your location from our Accelerated Breast MRI centers in Georgia, including: Decatur, Lawrenceville, or Sandy Springs
  3. Schedule your appointment online or by phone—same-day slots often available
  4. Verify insurance coverage—we’ll handle pre-approval and certification

Common Questions About Accelerated Breast MRI Scans

What is an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Accelerated Breast MRI (also called abbreviated breast MRI or AB-MRI) is a shortened, streamlined version of a traditional breast MRI that takes just 10-15 minutes while providing the same exceptional cancer-detection capabilities. This fast, radiation-free imaging test uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of breast tissue, detecting cancers that mammograms often miss.

Key differences from traditional breast MRI:
• Scan time: 10-15 minutes (vs. 30-45 minutes for traditional breast MRI)
• Protocol: Focuses on essential sequences for cancer detection
• Cost: More affordable due to shorter scan time
• Detection: Same excellent cancer-detection rates

Accelerated Breast MRI is ideal for:
• Women with dense breasts (where mammography has limited sensitivity)
• Women at increased risk of breast cancer
• Supplemental screening alongside annual mammography
• Women with personal or family history of breast cancer

Why did my doctor order an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Your doctor ordered an Accelerated Breast MRI because you need the most sensitive breast cancer screening available, particularly if you have dense breasts or elevated breast cancer risk.

Common reasons your doctor ordered this test:
• Dense breasts: Dense tissue appears white on mammograms, and so do cancers, making tumors difficult to see
• High cancer risk: Family history, genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2), or personal history of breast cancer
• Supplemental screening: To catch cancers that mammography might miss
• Follow-up imaging: Additional evaluation after an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound
• Implant evaluation: To check breast implants for rupture or leakage

The benefit: Studies show that breast MRI reduces interval cancers (cancers found between screenings) by more than 50% in women with extremely dense breasts.

Do I need a referral for an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Yes, you need a referral (also called a doctor’s order or prescription) to get an Accelerated Breast MRI scan.

What your referral does:
• Is based on your breast density, risk factors, and medical history
• Is necessary for insurance coverage
• Ensures the exam is appropriate for your specific situation

Once your doctor sends the order to American Health Imaging, we’ll contact you to schedule your appointment and verify your insurance coverage.

How do I schedule a same-day Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Scheduling a same-day Accelerated Breast MRI scan at American Health Imaging is easy and convenient.

Flexible scheduling options:
• Call us or request an appointment online
• Same-day and next-day appointments available
• Convenient hours to fit your schedule

Once your doctor sends us your referral, we can often schedule your scan quickly at one of our Georgia locations offering the scan.

What imaging centers near me offer an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?


American Health Imaging offers Accelerated Breast MRI at three convenient locations in Georgia.

Our Accelerated Breast MRI locations:
• Decatur, Georgia
• Lawrenceville, Georgia
• Sandy Springs, Georgia

All locations offer same-day and next-day appointments with convenient hours, ample parking, and compassionate, experienced staff. To find the location nearest you or schedule your appointment, call one of our imaging centers offering ABMRI or use our online scheduling system.

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What does an Accelerated Breast MRI scan diagnose?

Accelerated Breast MRI is the most sensitive breast imaging test available for detecting breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breasts.

Conditions diagnosed with Accelerated Breast MRI:
• Breast cancer: Detects invasive cancers and some types of DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ)
• Early-stage tumors: Finds cancers as small as 2-3 millimeters
• Breast implant problems: Evaluates silicone implants for rupture or leakage
• Breast abnormalities: Detects suspicious areas that need further evaluation

Detection rates:
• Sensitivity of 90-100% for detecting breast cancer
• Detects 15-16 additional cancers per 1,000 screenings compared to mammography alone
• Finds cancers at earlier, more treatable stages
• More than 40% of MRI-detected cancers are smaller than 1 cm

Who should get an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Accelerated Breast MRI is recommended for women who need supplemental breast cancer screening beyond mammography.

Women with dense breasts:
• Heterogeneously dense or extremely dense breast tissue
• Dense tissue makes mammograms less effective at detecting cancer
• About 40-50% of women have dense breasts

Women at high risk for breast cancer:
• BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
• Strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer
• Lifetime breast cancer risk of 20% or greater
• Personal history of breast cancer, especially if diagnosed before age 50
• Previous chest radiation between ages 10-30
• Genetic syndromes (Li-Fraumeni, Cowden, PTEN)

Women with specific breast conditions:
• Atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
• Silicone breast implants (recommended every 2-3 years to check for rupture)

Talk to your doctor about whether Accelerated Breast MRI is right for you based on your individual risk factors and breast density.

How should I prepare for an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Preparing for an Accelerated Breast MRI requires some simple steps to ensure the best images.

Before your appointment:
• Schedule your exam for the week after your period, when breasts are least tender (if you’re still menstruating)
• Inform us if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or might be pregnant
• Tell us about any kidney problems or previous reactions to contrast dye
• Arrive 15 minutes early to complete paperwork

Day of your appointment:
• Don’t wear deodorant, powder, lotion, or perfume on your chest or underarms (can interfere with imaging)
• Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing (you’ll change into a gown)
• Remove all jewelry, watches, and metal objects

Tell the technologist if you have:
• Metal implants, pacemaker, or IUD
• Breast implants (silicone or saline)
• Claustrophobia or anxiety
• Tattoos (some inks contain metal)
• Previous breast surgeries or biopsies
• Known allergies to contrast dye

What should I expect during an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

During your Accelerated Breast MRI scan, you’ll lie face-down with your breasts positioned comfortably in cushioned openings. The entire scan takes just 10-15 minutes.

What happens during your scan:
• Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early; verify information and complete forms
• Screening: Answer safety questions about metal implants, kidney function, and allergies
• IV placement: A small IV placed in your arm for contrast injection
• Positioning: You’ll lie face-down with breasts in cushioned openings, arms extended above head
• Comfort measures: Pillows, blankets, and headphones with music provided
• The scan: Table slides into MRI machine (open at both ends)
• Contrast injection: Contrast dye injected partway through (you may feel warmth or cool sensation)
• Duration: 10-15 minutes total scan time
• Communication: You can talk to the technologist through an intercom anytime

Key benefits of Accelerated Breast MRI:
• Significantly shorter than traditional 30-45 minute breast MRI
• Open at both ends—less claustrophobic
• Same excellent cancer detection capability

What happens after my Accelerated Breast MRI scan is complete?

After your Accelerated Breast MRI, you can resume all normal activities immediately.

Immediately after your scan:
• Resume driving, working, eating, and exercising
• Drink plenty of water for the rest of the day to help flush the contrast
• You can eat and take medications normally
• The IV site may be slightly tender or bruised (normal and temporary)

Getting your results:
• Fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologists review your images
• Your doctor receives a complete written report typically within 24-48 hours
• You’ll receive a text message with a link to a patient-friendly version of your report with explanations and diagrams
• Your doctor will contact you to discuss findings and determine if any follow-up is needed

Good news: Most breast MRI results are normal. If an abnormality is detected, your doctor may recommend additional imaging or a biopsy.

When will I get my Accelerated Breast MRI scan results back?

Your doctor: Typically receives results within 24-48 hours

You will receive: A text message with a link to view your imaging report

What’s included in your patient report:
• Easy-to-understand explanations of medical terminology
• BI-RADS category (standardized reporting system)
• Anatomical diagrams
• Information to help you prepare for your follow-up conversation with your doctor

Your breast MRI images are reviewed by fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologists who specialize in detecting breast cancer.

How accurate is an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Accelerated Breast MRI is the most sensitive breast imaging test available for detecting breast cancer.

Accuracy and detection rates:
• Sensitivity: 90-100% for detecting breast cancer
• Far superior to mammography: Especially in dense breasts (mammography: 25-59% in dense breasts)
• Detects more cancers: 15-16 additional cancers per 1,000 screenings compared to mammography alone
• Finds smaller cancers: More than 40% are under 1 cm (highly curable)
• Earlier detection: MRI-detected cancers are less likely to have spread to lymph nodes

Research shows:
• Reduces interval cancer rates by more than 50%
• Detects cancers at earlier, more treatable stages
• Maintains the same cancer detection rates as traditional full-protocol breast MRI

Important to know: Breast MRI has a higher false-positive rate than mammography (may find suspicious areas that turn out to be benign). This is why breast MRI is recommended as a supplement to—not a replacement for—annual mammography.

How long does an Accelerated Breast MRI scan take?

The actual scan: Just 10-15 minutes from start to finish

Your total appointment time: 30-40 minutes (including check-in, changing clothes, IV placement, and post-scan instructions)

Why it’s faster:
• Streamlined protocol focuses on essential cancer-detection sequences
• Significantly shorter than traditional breast MRI (30-45 minutes)
• Makes breast MRI more comfortable and convenient

How much does an Accelerated Breast MRI scan cost?

The cost of Accelerated Breast MRI varies depending on your insurance coverage and whether you’re paying out-of-pocket.

Typical Accelerated Breast MRI costs:
• With insurance: Depends on your deductible, coinsurance, and coverage for your specific indication
• Self-pay rates: Up to 60% less than hospital pricing
• More affordable: Than traditional breast MRI due to shorter scan time

We’re in-network with 99% of insurance plans, which means lower out-of-pocket costs for you.

What we do for you:
• Verify your insurance coverage
• Obtain necessary pre-authorization
• Provide a cost estimate before your appointment
• Offer transparent self-pay rates if insurance doesn’t cover

American Health Imaging can save patients hundreds to thousands of dollars compared to hospital-based breast MRI while providing the same high-quality imaging and expert interpretation.

Will my insurance cover an Accelerated Breast MRI scan?

Insurance coverage for Accelerated Breast MRI varies by plan and depends on your specific risk factors and indication for the exam.

Generally covered when:
• You have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
• You have a lifetime breast cancer risk of 20% or greater
• You have a personal history of breast cancer
• You have certain genetic syndromes (Li-Fraumeni, Cowden)
• You have a first-degree relative with BRCA mutations
• Your doctor orders it for evaluation of breast implants

May require pre-authorization for:
• Dense breasts as the sole indication
• Intermediate-risk patients (15-20% lifetime risk)
• Supplemental screening purposes

American Health Imaging is in-network with 99% of insurance plans. We’ll verify your coverage, obtain necessary pre-authorization, and provide a cost estimate before your appointment. If insurance doesn’t cover your scan, we offer transparent self-pay rates.

What is dense breast tissue?

Dense breast tissue means you have more glandular and fibrous tissue and less fatty tissue in your breasts.

Breast density categories:
• A – Almost entirely fatty: Breasts are mostly fat
• B – Scattered fibroglandular density: Some dense tissue scattered throughout
• C – Heterogeneously dense: Breasts have many areas of dense tissue (about 40% of women)
• D – Extremely dense: Breasts are mostly dense tissue (about 10% of women)

Why breast density matters:
1. Increases breast cancer risk: Women with dense breasts are 4-6 times more likely to develop breast cancer
2. Masks cancers on mammograms: Both dense tissue and cancers appear white on mammograms, making tumors difficult to see
3. Increases interval cancer risk: More likely to develop cancers between screenings

What to do: After your mammogram, you’ll receive a letter indicating your breast density category. If you have heterogeneously dense or extremely dense breasts, ask your doctor about supplemental screening with Accelerated Breast MRI.

What’s the difference between Accelerated Breast MRI and traditional breast MRI?

Accelerated Breast MRI uses a shortened scanning protocol while maintaining the same excellent cancer-detection capabilities.

Key Differences:



Studies show: Accelerated Breast MRI maintains the same excellent cancer-detection rates as traditional breast MRI while being faster, more comfortable, and more cost-effective for screening.

Important: If an abnormality is detected on your Accelerated Breast MRI, you may need a full diagnostic breast MRI for complete characterization.

Is Accelerated Breast MRI better than mammography?

Accelerated Breast MRI and mammography serve complementary roles—they work best together, not as replacements for one another.

Breast MRI advantages:
• Much higher sensitivity for detecting cancer (90-100% vs. 25-59% for mammography in dense breasts)
• Detects cancers at earlier stages
• Not limited by breast density—can “see through” dense tissue
• Finds cancers that mammograms miss
• Reduces interval cancers by more than 50%
• No radiation exposure

Mammography advantages:
• Excellent at detecting microcalcifications (early signs of DCIS)
• Widely available and less expensive
• Faster and more convenient
• Lower false-positive rate
• Established mortality benefit in randomized trials

The ideal approach: For women with dense breasts or high risk, annual mammography PLUS annual supplemental breast MRI provides the most comprehensive screening available.

Why do I need contrast dye for Accelerated Breast MRI?

Contrast dye (gadolinium) is essential for breast MRI because it highlights areas of abnormal blood vessel growth—a hallmark of breast cancer.

How contrast works:
• Breast cancers create new blood vessels to fuel their growth
• These abnormal vessels are “leaky”
• Contrast agent accumulates in these areas
• Causes breast cancers to “light up” on MRI images
• Allows detection of cancers as small as 2-3 millimeters

Safety: The contrast used for breast MRI is very safe. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare (less than 0.01% of patients).

Important: Without contrast, breast MRI cannot reliably detect breast cancer.

Can I have an Accelerated Breast MRI if I have breast implants?

Yes! In fact, breast MRI is the gold standard for evaluating silicone breast implants for rupture or leakage.

MRI for breast implants:
• The FDA recommends women with silicone implants undergo breast MRI every 2-3 years
• Detects silent ruptures (ruptures without symptoms)
• Evaluates implant positioning and integrity
• Identifies leaking silicone
• Assesses surrounding breast tissue for cancer

Important to know:
• Breast implants do not interfere with the MRI scan
• The MRI magnetic field does not damage or affect your implants
• Tell the technologist about your implants so they can use appropriate imaging sequences

What happens if my Accelerated Breast MRI finds something abnormal?

If your Accelerated Breast MRI detects a suspicious area, don’t panic—most findings turn out to be benign after additional evaluation.

BI-RADS categories your radiologist will assign:
• BI-RADS 0: Additional imaging needed (callback for more views)
• BI-RADS 1: Negative (no abnormalities)
• BI-RADS 2: Benign findings (no follow-up needed)
• BI-RADS 3: Probably benign (short-term follow-up MRI in 6 months recommended)
• BI-RADS 4: Suspicious (biopsy recommended)
• BI-RADS 5: Highly suggestive of cancer (biopsy required)

If a biopsy is recommended:
• An MRI-guided biopsy will be scheduled
• Performed under local anesthesia
• A small tissue sample removed using a needle
• Results available within 2-5 days
• About 20-30% of breast MRI-prompted biopsies find cancer

Remember: Early detection saves lives. Finding something on MRI often means catching cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage.

How often should I get an Accelerated Breast MRI?

The frequency of breast MRI screening depends on your risk level and breast density.

Annual breast MRI recommended for:
• Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations
• Women with 20% or greater lifetime breast cancer risk
• Women with a personal history of breast cancer (especially if dense breasts)
• Women with certain genetic syndromes
• Women who had chest radiation between ages 10 and 30

Consider annual breast MRI for:
• Women with extremely dense breasts
• Women with intermediate risk (15-20% lifetime risk)
• Women with strong family history of breast cancer
• Women with atypical hyperplasia or LCIS

Timing: Most women alternate their MRI and mammogram every 6 months (MRI in spring, mammogram in fall), so they’re being screened twice yearly with different modalities. Some women have both tests done on the same day.

Talk to your doctor about the screening schedule that’s right for you.

Is Accelerated Breast MRI safe?

Yes, Accelerated Breast MRI is very safe. MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves—no radiation—making it safer than mammography or CT scans for repeated imaging.

Safety benefits:
No radiation exposure: Unlike mammograms and CT scans
• Contrast safety: Gadolinium contrast is very safe; serious allergic reactions occur in less than 0.01% of patients
• Safe for repeated screening: No cumulative radiation risk

Who should not have a breast MRI:
• Patients with certain metal implants (some pacemakers, cochlear implants)
• Patients with metal fragments in their eyes
• Patients with severe kidney disease (contrast may not be safe)
• First trimester of pregnancy (although no harm has been proven)

Always inform your technologist about any metal in your body, kidney problems, or allergies before your MRI.

Can Accelerated Breast MRI detect breast cancer early?

Yes—this is one of the most important benefits of Accelerated Breast MRI.

Evidence of early detection:
• More than 40% of MRI-detected cancers are smaller than 1 cm (highly curable)
• MRI-detected cancers are less likely to have spread to lymph nodes (21% vs. 55% for mammography-detected cancers)
• Interval cancer rates reduced by more than 50% with MRI screening
• Earlier detection translates to better survival rates and less aggressive treatment

For high-risk women: Studies show that adding annual MRI to mammography screening significantly improves survival compared to mammography alone.

The benefit: Early detection means smaller tumors, less invasive surgery, better cosmetic outcomes, and higher cure rates.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

With a 97% satisfaction score, we’re proud to deliver compassionate care, clear communication, and imaging you can count on.

I lost sleep since finding out I needed an MRI. I am extremely claustrophobic and anxious, just thinking about this appointment gave me massive anxiety. When I arrived to the office it was super clean, the staff was great but NAOMI… She was so patient. Absolutely sweet and cared that I was going through so much. She made me feel so secure. She played the music I wanted and talked me through every little session and also let me know how much time for each one. Thank you so much Naomi. I’ll never forget my experience and because of her, I don’t feel so afraid.
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Lynda A.
Excellent experience with the MRI Technologist, the staff and the OPEN MRI machine. For those of us who struggle with claustrophobia we can understand how much it means to be able to get the medical care we need because of the availability of open MRI machines. We also understand the humiliation and frustration of not being able to use a closed MRI. American Health and the excellent team made this possible for me. Thank you so much!!
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Leela D.
This place by far was my best imaging experience. I was in and out 10 minutes before my scheduled appointment. The front desk staff were very friendly and efficient, and my technician was super sweet and made me feel very comfortable. I definitely recommend this place for your imaging needs.
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Corina W.
This was such an awesome and relaxing visit. Front desk was so nice and polite when I arrived. Christie my ultrasound tech was super helpful and nice explaining everything to me. You can tell she really cared, and I appreciate that. It’s hard to fine genuine care these days in healthcare, so when I experience it I make sure to give a shout out and say Thank you!
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Marie B.
Best facility I have ever been to have an MRI or X-Ray done. They got me in when I was in need of a quick appointment in order for a consultation with the orthopedic surgeon to help with the pain and issues in my lower back and both feet and legs. Definitely the place to go for an MRI.
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Raymond L.
Talk about professionalism, I must say, American Health Imaging and its personnel it’s top notch! Even when things out of anyone’s control happen, they know how to help and support their patients. On our visit earlier this month, they made sure we were informed of the situation and next steps. And did it all with a smile and positive attitude. We need to appreciate more what they do and THANK them for it. With this said, Thank you!
Cesar G.

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