Future directions in breast MRI aim not only to improve accuracy for breast cancer detection, but also to reduce barriers for more widespread MR screening by increasing the safety and accessibility of the examination. In this session, we will review the potential of emerging techniques, including abbreviated breast MRI protocols to increase throughput and reduce overall costs of breast MRI, ultrafast DCE to enhance accuracy, and diffusion-weighted MRI to improve diagnostic performance and allow cancer detection without the need for gadolinium contrast. We will also discuss basic technical considerations for implementing these advanced techniques, as well as innovations that hold promise to further expand their clinical utility.
Learning Objectives:
Describe the clinical role of abbreviated breast MRI and potential advantages and limitations of ultrafast protocols
Recognize the promise and challenges of unenhanced breast diffusion-weighted MRI
Understand basic technical requirements for implementation, as well as emerging advancements that may further improve utility for breast imaging
