Cardiac MRI
A Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a safe and non-invasive imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your heart and surrounding structures. It allows your healthcare provider to see all parts of the heart—including the chambers, valves, muscles, and blood vessels—with exceptional clarity.
Cardiac MRI is commonly used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, and heart valve disorders. It also provides valuable insights into heart function and blood flow, helping guide future treatment decisions.
How Does It Work?
Your doctor may recommend a cardiac MRI to assess your heart more thoroughly, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Common reasons include:
- Persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting episodes
- Unexplained heart enlargement or thickening
- Suspected or known damage from a previous heart attack
- Evaluation of heart valve abnormalities
- Persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting episodes
Why Might I Need a Cardiac MRI?
Your doctor may recommend a cardiac MRI to assess your heart more thoroughly, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Common reasons include:
- Persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting episodes
- Unexplained heart enlargement or thickening
- Suspected or known damage from a previous heart attack
- Evaluation of heart valve abnormalities
Investigation of congenital heart defects
What Does It Show?
Cardiac MRI is a versatile tool used to evaluate many heart conditions, such as:
- Coronary artery disease
- Congenital heart defects
- Cardiomyopathy
- Heart valve disease
- Heart failure
- Scarring or damage from a previous heart attack
The images are reviewed by a radiologist or cardiologist with expertise in cardiac imaging. Once your results are available, your treating doctor will discuss them with you and outline the most suitable treatment plan or further investigations based on the findings.