General Information About the Test
Test Process and Preparation
Echocardiography (ultrasound) is a basic and highly useful tool, but it may be insufficient in demonstrating the internal structure of the heart muscle, its tissue, and scarring (scar tissue) that has formed in the heart. Cardiac MRI provides a definitive diagnosis by mapping a detailed "tissue map" of the heart muscle.
The patient lies on the bed of the MRI machine, and electrodes that monitor the heart rhythm (ECG) are attached to their chest. The scan is synchronized with the heartbeat, and instructions to hold one's breath are given. Depending on the details of the procedure, it takes an average of 45-60 minutes.
Yes. To observe the vitality and blood supply (perfusion) of the heart muscle, a "Gadolinium"-based MRI contrast agent is generally administered through an IV in the arm during the scan. For this reason, mild fasting and a kidney function test are required before the procedure.
The information on this page is for informational purposes only. The results of medical tests must be evaluated by specialist physicians.
