MRI May Not Improve Breast Cancer Outcome; But Does Increase Likelihood of Extensive Surgery, University of Sydney And University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center Study

EurekAlert! -- ATLANTA—August 13, 2009—A new review says using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before surgery to assess the extent of early breast cancer has not been shown to improve surgical planning, reduce follow-up surgery, or reduce the risk of local recurrences. The review, appearing early online in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, says evidence shows that MRI increases the chances of more extensive surgery over conservative approaches, with no evidence that it improves surgical care or prognosis.