Assessment of Potentially Unnecessary Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging Utilization and Its Economic Impact: A Retrospective Study

Background: In this study, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations were retrospectively reviewed. This study evaluated whether the indications for breast MRI were consistent with the recommendations of the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS)atlas. Additionally, the study assessed whether prior ultrasound and mammography findings were sufficient for diagnosis. The aim was to identify potentially unnecessary breast MRI examinations and their associated financial burden. Methods: Breast MRI reports were compared with previous mammography and ultrasound reports. Patients for whom breast MRI provided no additional diagnostic benefit were identified, and the indications for MRI examination were analyzed. Results: Comparison of BI-RADS categories assigned on prior ultrasound and mammography with those assigned after breast MRI revealed that 321 (64.3%) of the 499 patients could have been adequately managed without breast MRI. In these patients, MRI findings did not alter clinical management or treatment decisions. Conclusion: Breast MRI is a costly imaging modality with limited accessibility in many healthcare settings. Therefore, its economic impact should be carefully considered when determining appropriate indications for its use. These findings suggest that the absence of restrictive criteria for breast MRI requests may contribute to substantial financial losses due to unnecessary examinations.