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Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that provides detailed and comprehensive images of the heart and its surrounding structures.
What is a Cardiac MRI?
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a sophisticated diagnostic technique that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. Unlike traditional imaging methods, such as X-rays or CT scans, cardiac MRI does not involve ionising radiation, making it a safe and non-invasive option for assessing various cardiac structures. It provides high-resolution, three-dimensional images that enable healthcare professionals to evaluate the heart’s chambers, valves, blood vessels, and surrounding tissues with exceptional clarity.
Who Needs Cardiac MRI?
A cardiac MRI may be ordered to evaluate for causes of heart failure, assess valvular heart disease, congenital heart disorders, assess for heart muscle damage after a heart attack, assess for heart muscle inflammation or infiltration, and for heart tumours.
How Do I Prepare For Cardiac MRI?
You will need to inform your doctor of any implanted devices or metal objects as some of these may not be compatible with having an MRI. Inform your doctor of any allergies particularly to Gadolinium which is sometimes used as a contrast agent for cardiac MRIs. Inform your healthcare provider if you have concerns over anxiety or discomfort in tight spaces. Arrange for transportation if sedation is used.
On the day of the MRI take your normal medicines and meals unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider. Do not wear any jewellery and remove any piercings, glasses or hearing aids that contain metal.
What Happens During Cardiac MRI?
As you lie on a padded table, the healthcare team positions you for optimal imaging and attaches monitoring devices for continuous assessment of vital signs. If needed, an intravenous (IV) line may be inserted to administer contrast dye (gadolinium).
Positioned within the MRI machine, you will hear loud tapping or thumping sounds as images are captured. Breath-holding instructions may be given, and contrast dye, if utilised, is injected through the IV line. The healthcare team communicates with you throughout the process to ensure your comfort. The scan should take around 1 hour.
Once all required images are acquired, the table moves out of the machine, and you can resume normal activities after removing monitoring devices and the IV line.
What To Do After Cardiac MRI?
Following a cardiac MRI, resume normal activities, stay hydrated, and monitor for any adverse reactions to contrast dye. If sedation was used have someone accompany you home.
You will be provided a follow up appointment with your doctor to discuss the MRI results and subsequent treatment plan.
What are the Risks of a Cardiac MRI?
A cardiac MRI is a safe test that does not involve ionising radiation like CT scans or chest X rays. People with metal implants inside their body should not undergo an MRI unless their device is certified as MRI safe. For some cardiac MRIs a special contrast called Gadolinium may be used. This cannot be used in the presence of advanced kidney disease. You will need to inform your doctor if you are known to have any kidney problems. There is also a small risk of allergy to gadolinium.
