FAST MRI

FAST MRI, also called abbreviated MRI or AB-MRI, is a shorter version of a standard breast MRI that is designed to screen for additional breast cancers that are not seen on mammography.

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As the region's only triple-accredited breast cancer center, our promise to you is world-class care delivered with deep compassion. Our experts are physicians and researchers who relentlessly pursue the best and latest treatments for your breast cancer, offering you hope for your diagnosis.

To schedule an appointment, please call the UC Breast Cancer team at 513-585-UCCC.

Our breast imaging experts focus solely on breast-related screenings and diagnosis. We offer experienced, deeply compassionate and personalized care. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 513-584-PINK.

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Answers to your FAST MRI Questions

FAST MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of the breast. Like an ultrasound, MRI does not use radiation (X-rays) and is not limited by dense breast tissue. MRI uses dye injected into the bloodstream to highlight abnormalities in the breast–that’s what makes it possible to find many early cancers not seen on a mammogram or ultrasound.

FAST MRI can detect more than twice as many breast cancers as the latest 3D mammogram in women with dense breasts.

The combination of FAST MRI and 3D mammography (digital breast tomosynthesis), gives a patient the best chance of early breast cancer detection in average and intermediate risk women with dense breast tissue.

A FAST MRI only takes 10-15 minutes to perform, whereas  a standard breast MRI will take around 40 minutes.

Women are eligible for a FAST MRI if they meet all the following criteria: 

  • A negative mammogram within 11 months of the scheduled FAST MRI. 

  • No new breast symptoms (ie, palpable lump, nipple discharge, etc). 

  • Breast cancer risk assessment with lifetime risk less than 20%. 

  • No diagnosis of breast cancer within the past two (2) years. 

  • Does not qualify for traditional breast MRI for any reason.

UC Health offers FAST MRI screenings at our Ridgeway location on our Clifton Campus. To schedule your exam, please call (513) 585-TEST.

While not covered by insurance, it can be requested by your healthcare provider for an out-of-pocket cost of $350.

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Cincinnati’s Breast Cancer Experts

At Cincinnati’s only adult academic health system, we offer the most advanced breast cancer care by combining subspecialized expertise with the very latest research findings. All of our breast specialists are board certified.

Screening and Diagnostic Services

As the only American College of Radiology (ACR) Breast Imaging Center of Excellence and MRI-accredited center in the region, we offer an expert approach to screening and diagnostic services to minimize the risk for misdiagnosis and unnecessary testing.

Science-Driven Care

As part of UC Health, our comprehensive breast cancer team offers patients advanced care backed by the latest science, delivered with deep compassion.

Clinical Trials and Research

The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center Breast Cancer Center participates in National Cancer Institute-sponsored cooperative group trials and UC investigator-initiated clinical research studies to test promising new breast cancer therapies.

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