The Value of MR-guided Biopsies in a Patient-centered and Research-based Diagnostic Approach

Since the 1990s, the MRI continues to become more accessible and the preferable method for many diagnostic imaging protocols. As more research shows that MRI can evolve and advance the field of diagnostic radiology, it also has useful applications alongside biopsy procedures. MR-guided biopsies is one of the many ways physicians use MR to aid in diagnosing possible cancers. To investigate the value of MRI, a review and synthesis of research documenting the viability of MR-guided biopsies across different organs was performed. The literature has shown that MR-guided biopsies provide higher sensitivity to the detection of small lesions that are not seen in other imaging modalities. Although MR-guided biopsies are commonly used in sampling breast lesions today, it is also safe and accurate in sampling prostate, liver, bone, lung lesions, and more. The MRI could provide better chances at a successful biopsy, less missed cancer lesions, and better patient outcomes. With all the possible applications of MRI, not only in biopsies but also in many different interventional and interoperative procedures, there is a substantial lack of research in the accessibility for patients to utilize MR-guided procedures when applicable due to cost. Additional research should be conducted to investigate how MRI can become more cost-effective, more insurance-friendly, and more integrated into a patient’s treatment plan when it is beneficial to do so.

Sophia Tu capstone.pdf

Sophia Tu

Sophia Tu immigrated to America from Vietnam when she was 8 years old. Now majoring in MRI on the pre-medical track, Sophia plans to become a physician in order to address healthcare disparities in her own community, St. Louis, as well as health disparities in the Vietnamese community as a whole. She is also interested in research, mentorship, and the arts and plan on incorporating them into her work as a physician in the future.

Marcey Kennedy is the director of the MRI department and an influential part in Sophia's interest in MRI and radiology. Marcey’s commitment to teaching and her passion for MRI has undoubtedly inspired Sophia to continue researching and exploring the field.