A detailed assessment of the heart’s structure and function.
Cardiac MRI, also known as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, is an advanced imaging test that provides detailed images of the heart and the structures surrounding it.
The examination allows for the assessment of the heart’s anatomy, how it contracts, blood flow, and the characteristics of the myocardial tissue. Cardiac MRI can provide important information for the diagnosis and monitoring of various cardiovascular conditions, without the use of ionizing radiation.
At MedicalES, the Cardiac MRI examination is performed at the Phoenix Clinic by a team specializing in cardiovascular imaging. The physicians and medical staff involved have dedicated experience in performing and interpreting this examination, working together to provide the most accurate assessment of each case. The examination is performed using state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment, based on the specialist’s recommendation and a protocol tailored to each patient’s clinical situation.
What is Cardiac MRI?
Cardiac MRI is a noninvasive test that uses a strong magnetic field, radiofrequency waves, and a computerized system to produce clear images of the heart. The images are synchronized with the heart’s activity, allowing the doctor to observe the heart both at rest and in motion.
This investigation makes it possible to analyze:
- the dimensions of the heart chambers;
- cardiac wall thickness;
- the movement and contractile capacity of the myocardium;
- the function of the left ventricle and the right ventricle;
- heart valves;
- the pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart;
- the large blood vessels near the heart;
- blood flow;
- areas of inflammation, fibrosis, scarring, or myocardial infarction.
In certain situations, the examination is performed by administering a gadolinium-based contrast agent intravenously. This helps to characterize the heart tissue and distinguish between healthy and affected areas.
When is a Cardiac MRI recommended?
Cardiac MRI may be recommended when a detailed evaluation of the heart is needed.
The investigation may be useful for:
- evaluation of cardiomyopathies;
- investigating a possible case of myocarditis;
- assessment of sequelae following a myocardial infarction;
- identifying areas of myocardial fibrosis or scarring;
- assessment of myocardial viability;
- analysis of left ventricular and right ventricular function;
- diagnosing certain congenital heart defects;
- assessment of pericardial diseases;
- the investigation of certain cardiac lesions or tumors;
- detection of intracardiac clots;
- assessment of certain heart valve diseases;
- monitoring patients with known cardiovascular conditions;
- to clarify inconclusive results obtained from other investigations.
CardiacMRI is not a substitute for echocardiography, an electrocardiogram, a stress test, or other cardiac tests. These tests complement one another, and the doctor selects the appropriate method based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and suspected diagnosis.
What conditions can be evaluated using Cardiac MRI?
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as:
Cardiomyopathies
Cardiac MRI allows for the assessment of heart size, wall thickness, contractile function, and changes in myocardial tissue. It may be indicated when hypertrophic, dilated, arrhythmogenic, or infiltrative cardiomyopathy is suspected.
Myocarditis
In cases of inflammation of the heart muscle, Cardiac MRI can reveal edema, inflammation, and any areas of fibrosis.
Myocardial Infarction and Ischemic Heart Disease
The test can identify areas of the myocardium affected by ischemia or a heart attack and can help assess viable heart tissue.
Pericardial Disorders
Cardiac MRI can provide information about thickening, inflammation, or fluid accumulation in the pericardium.
Congenital Heart Defects
This examination allows for an analysis of the anatomy of the heart and the large blood vessels, and is useful both for diagnosis and for monitoring certain congenital anomalies.
Cardiac Tumors and Lesions
MRI can help locate and characterize a cardiac mass and distinguish it from a thrombus.
How is the investigation conducted?
Before the examination, the patient fills out a questionnaire and discusses their medical history, any surgeries, implants, medical devices, allergies, and treatments with the medical staff.
The patient must remove any metal or electronic objects, such as jewelry, watches, cell phones, bank cards, hearing aids, or other accessories that are incompatible with the MRI environment.
Electrodes are placed on the chest to monitor heart activity. If the test is performed using a contrast agent, an IV catheter is inserted into a vein in the arm.
The patient is positioned on the scanner table, which moves inside the magnet. During the scan, it is important to remain still and follow the medical staff’s instructions.
To ensure clear images, the patient may be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds several times during the exam.
The machine produces loud noises, which are normal for its operation. The patient is provided with headphones or earplugs and can communicate with the medical staff at all times through the audio system.
The scan itself usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes. The total time spent at the clinic may be longer, as it includes preparing the patient, filling out the questionnaire, attaching the electrodes, and, if necessary, administering the contrast agent.
How do you prepare for Cardiac MRI?
When scheduling an appointment, the patient must indicate whether they:
- have implants or medical devices;
- have a pacemaker or an implantable defibrillator;
- have undergone surgery;
- have prostheses, clips, stents, or other metal components;
- have kidney problems;
- have had reactions to contrast agents;
- are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy;
- suffer from claustrophobia;
- cannot remain lying down or motionless;
- are undergoing medical treatment.
It is recommended that the patient brings:
- a medical recommendation;
- relevant medical documents;
- the results of cardiology consultations;
- previous electrocardiograms and cardiac ultrasounds;
- previous CT or MRI results;
- a discharge summary, if applicable;
- the tests requested at the time of scheduling.
If a contrast agent is to be administered, a recent assessment of kidney function—such as a serum creatinine test—may be required. The exact requirements will be communicated by MedicalES staff at the time of scheduling.
The patient should not discontinue their usual treatments unless the physician who ordered the test or the center’s staff provides explicit instructions to do so.
Are there any contraindications for Cardiac MRI?
The examination cannot be performed or requires a special assessment in the case of certain implants and medical devices.
Situations that must be reported before scheduling an appointment include:
- pacemakers or defibrillators;
- cochlear implants;
- implantable drug-delivery pumps;
- neurostimulators;
- metal fragments in the body, particularly near the eyes;
- certain vascular clips;
- implants or devices whose MRI compatibility is unknown;
- recent surgeries;
- kidney failure;
- task.
The presence of an implant does not automatically mean that the examination is impossible. Some modern devices are conditionally compatible with MRI scans, but it is necessary to know the manufacturer, model, and conditions under which they can be scanned.
The final decision is made by the medical team after evaluating the device documentation and assessing the balance between the benefits and risks of the examination.
What are the benefits of Cardiac MRI?
Cardiac MRI provides a comprehensive assessment of the heart during a single examination.
The main advantages are:
- provides detailed images of the heart’s anatomy;
- allows for the evaluation of the heart during movement;
- measures the volumes and function of the heart chambers;
- may characterize myocardial tissue;
- can detect inflammation, edema, fibrosis, and scarring;
- can assess blood flow and large blood vessels;
- helps establish a diagnosis and monitor treatment.
Cardiac MRI provides important information about the anatomy, function, and structure of cardiac tissue, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of complex cardiovascular conditions.
The examination is performed based on a medical recommendation and a protocol established according to the patient’s clinical condition.
Contact the MedicalES team for information about availability, required documents, exam preparation, and scheduling.
