A cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a non-invasive, painless test that produces detailed images of your heart and blood vessels.
A cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a non-invasive, painless test that produces detailed images of your heart and blood vessels. It can assess the structure and function of your heart and diagnose various heart conditions.
You’ll be asked to lie down on a sliding table that moves into the MRI scanner, which is a large tube-shaped machine.
In some cases, you may need an injection of contrast dye (Gadolinium) through an intravenous line in your arm. This helps the images show more detail, especially to highlight blood flow or any scarring in the heart.
You’ll hear loud knocking, thumping, or buzzing sounds as the MRI machine takes images. These noises are normal and occur as the magnets work.
You’ll be given earplugs or headphones to block out some of the noise. The technician will be able to communicate with you via a two-way intercom.
The cardiac technician (Radiographer) will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds during certain parts of the scan. This helps get clearer images, as any movement can blur the pictures.
The test takes around 60 minutes. The images from the scan will be analysed by a Cardiologist or Radiologist and passed to your treating Cardiologist who will contact you with the results and plan for your ongoing care.
