Are MRI scans needed in surgery assessment for breast cancer patients?
Breast cancer patients may not have to undergo additional MRI scans when assessing if they need further surgery to remove tumours or growths. Findings from scientists at Hull University and Hull Royal Infirmary revealed that the triple assessment of patients is sufficient, with no additional information being gained from the MRI scan. Following surgery, breast cancer patients are given the triple assessment including clinical examination, an ultrasound or x-ray of the breast and lab tests of the tumour. They are usually then given an MRI scan in addition. However, the research split the 1,623 women it assessed into two groups, with half getting the MRI scan and the other half having no more scans. The results showed that 19 per cent of each group were identified as needing further surgery. The research, which was published in the Lancet journal, could save NHS primary care trusts a lot of additional money spent on the scans. Lead researcher Lindsay Turnbull said: “We believe that our f