Cardiac MRI

This service is performed externally – a referral for this service is arranged following a formal Consultation with one of our Cardiologists. 

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive test that produces highly detailed images of the heart and surrounding vessels, allowing the identification of abnormalities that may not be seen with other imaging modalities. 

 A Cardiac MRI may be recommended to further investigate abnormalities involving the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), abnormal cardiac masses (such as blood clots or tumours), congenital heart disease, valve disease or other heart conditions.

This test is performed in a specialist radiology centre.  Unlike CT scanning, it does not result in exposure to ionising radiation. The scan usually takes 45-60 minutes.

The scanner is a large machine shaped like a tunnel.  You will lie down on a table and be moved inside the scanner with a special coil over your chest.  It can be a noisy, so you will be given headphones while inside.  You will usually be asked to hold your breath several times during the test, so images can be taken while your chest is still.  Your heart rate must be monitored throughout the procedure via small sticky electrodes placed on your chest.

Please notify the MRI staff if you have any implanted devices (such as a pacemaker or defibrillator) or other metal work in your body.  Having metal in your body doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have an MRI, but it’s important to be informed to avoid risks and ensure precautions are taken. 

If you are claustrophobic, you may require sedation through a small needle in the arm.  In most cases, an injection of a contrast agent (gadolinium) is also administered during the test via an intravenous cannula. Gadolinium is considered to be safe with a very low incidence of allergic reaction and is unrelated to other iodine-based contrast injections you may have had for CT scans or other x-ray procedures.