Magnetic resonance imaging of breast augmentation: a pictorial review

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of breast augmentation presents new challenges in breast imaging interpretation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recognized as the gold standard for the evaluation of augmented breasts. This article reviews the MRI features of different breast augmentation techniques, their associated complications, and the role of MRI in the assessment of concurrent breast abnormalities.Teaching Points• MRI has the highest sensitivity and specificity for implant rupture detection.• MRI is able to discriminate the nature of implanted prosthesis or injected materials.• Sensitivity of cancer detection by MRI is not reduced through implants.

Understanding indications and defining guidelines for breast magnetic resonance imaging

“…Magnetic resonance imaging is the most accurate test to assess integrity of implants. 60 Silicone specific,T1 and T2 sequences clearly demonstrate intra and extracapsular rupture (see Figure 10). Nonetheless, clinical guidance is necessary to determine the benefit of MRI.…”

Comparative clinical evaluation of breast augmentation using silicone foam coated implants and textured implants

“…This layer, in circular arrangement, exerts traction on the implant and determines signs and symptoms ranging from discomfort or breast stiffening sensation to continuous and refractory pain, with possible loss of mobility and aesthetic deformity 1 . Capsular contracture may occur at any moment after surgery and this condition is diagnosed clinically, as mentioned above, but imaging tests are usually requested for diagnostic confirmation 2 .…”

Sonography in capsular contracture after breast augmentation: value of established criteria, new techniques and directions for research

“…It has to be considered that small asymmetries which can be seen on clinical examination or are mentioned by the patient may go undetected with imaging alone. Increased number of radial folds is described regularly as a finding of capsular contracture [2][3][4][5][6]. With contracture of the fibrous capsule, the surface for the extension of the implant is diminished and radial folds occur.…”

“…With contracture of the fibrous capsule, the surface for the extension of the implant is diminished and radial folds occur. The diagnostic problem is that some radial folds are regarded as normal findings after breast implants, and no study reports about a possible distinction between a normal and a pathological number of folds [2][3][4][5][6]. If augmentation has been performed bilaterally, the number of folds can be compared and a difference in the number of radial folds can be interpreted as a sign of capsular contracture.…”

“…If the initial findings can be replicated, elastography may evolve into a clinically valuable tool in the diagnosis of capsular contracture. After the administration of contrast media, enhancement of the fibrous capsule may be observed with magnetic resonance imaging, a condition called ''capsulitis'' [6]. The clinical relevance of this finding is unclear.…”