A cardiac MRI is a non-invasive imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart and surrounding blood vessels. It can provide information about the heart’s structure, function, blood flow and tissue characteristics without using X-rays.
Cardiac MRI can help doctors assess conditions affecting the heart muscle, chambers, valves and surrounding structures. Depending on the clinical need, contrast may be used to provide additional information about heart tissue and blood flow.
A cardiac MRI may be recommended when detailed information about the heart is needed after an initial evaluation or other cardiac tests. It can help doctors:
The reason for a cardiac MRI depends on your symptoms, medical history and the specific information your cardiologist needs.
A cardiac MRI may be recommended for people with suspected or known heart conditions when more detailed imaging is required. It can be useful for patients being evaluated for cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, congenital heart disease, heart muscle scarring or other structural abnormalities.
Your cardiologist may recommend a cardiac MRI when information from an ECG, echocardiogram, CT scan or other investigation is not sufficient. The scan is not necessary for everyone and is usually advised based on individual clinical needs.
Cardiac MRI can be performed using different imaging sequences depending on what the doctor needs to evaluate.
This assesses how the heart chambers move and how effectively the heart pumps blood. It can provide information about ventricular function and heart wall movement.
Special MRI sequences can help identify changes in heart tissue, including inflammation, scarring or fibrosis. This can be useful when evaluating certain heart muscle disorders.
In some examinations, a contrast agent is injected through a vein to provide additional information about blood flow and tissue characteristics. Whether contrast is required depends on the reason for the scan.
A cardiac MRI is performed while you lie on a movable table that slides into the MRI scanner. The examination generally involves the following steps:
Your medical history, medications and any previous imaging or cardiac investigations may be reviewed. You will be asked about metal implants, devices, previous reactions to contrast and other medical conditions. Depending on the type of scan, specific preparation or fasting may be advised.
You lie on your back while sensors may be placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat. The MRI scanner then captures images of the heart. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly at certain points to help obtain clearer images.
The scanner produces loud knocking or tapping sounds, so earplugs or headphones may be provided. If contrast is required, it is administered through an intravenous line during the examination.
Once the images have been captured, the radiologist reviews them and prepares a report. Unless your doctor gives you specific instructions, you can generally return to your regular activities after the examination.
Cardiac MRI provides detailed images of the heart without exposing the patient to ionising radiation. It can assess both the heart’s structure and function while also providing information about heart tissue that may not be available from some other imaging tests.
This makes it particularly useful when doctors need a more detailed assessment of the heart muscle, scarring, inflammation or complex structural abnormalities.
Cardiac MRI does not use X-rays, but it is not suitable for everyone. Certain metal implants or medical devices may make MRI unsafe or require specific safety assessment before scanning.
If contrast is required, there can be risks associated with the contrast agent, particularly in people with certain kidney conditions. Tell your doctor and radiology team about implants, kidney disease, pregnancy, allergies or previous reactions before the scan.
Some people may also feel uncomfortable in the enclosed MRI scanner, particularly if they have claustrophobia. The radiology team can discuss appropriate measures beforehand.
Preparation varies according to the type of cardiac MRI being performed. You may receive instructions about fasting, medications or caffeine before the examination. Inform the radiology team about any metal implants, pacemakers or other medical devices, as well as pregnancy or possible pregnancy.
Sparsh Hospital offers advanced imaging and diagnostic services, including MRI, CT scan, X-ray and ultrasound, supported by its radiology team. Cardiac evaluation can also be coordinated with specialist cardiac care when required.
Sparsh Hospital provides radiology and diagnostic services at locations including Infantry Road, RR Nagar, Yelahanka, Yeswanthpur, Hennur and Sarjapur Road in Bangalore. Patients looking for a cardiac MRI hospital or diagnostic centre in Bangalore can consult their doctor to determine whether cardiac MRI is appropriate and where the examination should be performed.
No. A cardiac MRI is generally painless. You may feel some discomfort from lying still for the examination, and contrast injection may cause a brief sensation when used.
The duration varies depending on the type of examination and whether contrast is required. Your radiology team can provide an estimated appointment time based on the scan being performed.
No. Cardiac MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than X-rays, so it does not expose patients to ionising radiation.
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