Cardiac MRI

Basic Facts:

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is a painless, non-invasive imaging test that does not use radiation. Instead, it uses radio waves, a large magnet, and a computer to create detailed 2-D and 3-D pictures of structures inside the body.
  • An MRI can be performed on any part of the body. A heart or cardiac MRI looks specifically at the heart's structure and function as well as the surrounding blood vessels, often without the need for a contrast agent or "dye".
  • Cardiac MRI can be used in the assessment of several heart conditions.
CT scan

MRI exams are painless and non-invasive. The part that may be uncomfortable for some is remaining still during the imaging portion of the exam. If claustrophobic, talk to the ordering provider to see if medication may be prescribed. 

The MRI machine does generate loud noises as images are captured. The facility will provide protective ear plugs, or headphones for music.  

  1. Patient will be attached to an electrocardiogram (ECG) and other external devices to monitor heart rate, breathing, and pulse during the exam. 

  1. The patient will then lie flat on an exam table, which slides into a large metal tube. 

  1. It is important to lie still during the scan, and at various times the patient will be asked to hold their breath. 

  1. The technologist is typically in an adjacent room operating the equipment, but will be able to hear and speak with the patient throughout the exam.  

  1. The imaging portion of cardiac MRI usually takes about 60 minutes. 

There are no post-test restrictions for a cardiac MRI. After the procedure, the patient can leave and go about their day. 

The imaging facility will send a report to the ordering provider, and the Virginia Heart Care Team will contact the patient with specifics regarding results.