MRI Procedure Info

➜ Cardiac Examinations

 

Cardiac Examination: approx. 60 minutes

There are differences in the way this procedure is performed depending on the individual patient, the institution, and the Doctor. Therefore, not all of this information may apply to you. If you have any concerns, please discuss with your Referring Doctor.

If you have any concerns about the procedure, please call and chat to our friendly team.

Why are you having this procedure?

The Cardiac MRI scan provides highly detailed imaging information to help your Doctor diagnose and treat a range of cardiac conditions. This scan provides very specific and accurate imaging of your heart’s functionality to help detect disease, congenital or other cardiac conditions. This examination requires IV contrast administration. Frequent breathing instructions are provided to you during your scan, to help gain optimal imaging, while you are in a comfortable stationery position.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

We will complete an MRI safety checklist with you when booking you for your scan.

Please advise radiology staff if you:

  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant

  • Have any allergies to medicines

  • Have kidney or renal function issues

  • Have a Pacemaker or Cardiac defibrillator

  • Have any metallic objects within your eye/s

  • Have had brain surgery, and if clips were used during your surgery.

These may mean that you are unable to have an MRI as it would be unsafe for you to be exposed to the magnetic field within the MRI suite.

Other cardiac surgery ie stents, valves etc are safe to scan but please inform us of these in advance of your appointment.

Any other specific individual instructions will be given to you in advance.

What do I need to know prior to an appointment?

  • Make sure you understand why you are having this procedure. If you have any concerns or questions please contact us for information and advice prior to your appointment.

  • Do not stop any medication, take as per usual—unless instructed to by Absolute Radiology staff.

  • Please remove all jewellery and piercings PRIOR to arrival.

  • Wear clothing that is easy to undress and redress.


What to expect on the day of the procedure

You will be asked to arrive approximately 20 minutes prior to your booked appointment time.

During this time we will:

  • Ask you to fill in safety forms, to be checked with a nurse or radiographer

  • We may measure your height and weight.

  • Explain the use of contrast agent that will be given (if deemed necessary)

  • Explain and recheck your safety questionnaire.

  • Ask you to change into a gown

  • Put in an IV cannula (IV line or drip)

What does the procedure involve?

  1. You will be asked to lie on your back on the MRI bed.

  2. It is very important that you are able to keep as still as possible during the active scans (this is when the machine is noisy).

  3. ECG leads are attached to your chest to monitor of your heart.

  4. The MRI machine will provide breathing instructions throughout the scan.

  5. This will be followed by the injection of a contrast agent.

  6. The time on the scanner will be approximately 1 hour.

  7. You will be given an emergency buzzer to con-tact us at any time throughout the procedure.

After the procedure

  • Your IV line will be removed

  • Once changed back to your own clothes you are able to leave.

  • The images of this examination are accessible to your referring doctor.

  • The formal report will be sent to your

  • referring consultant and a copy will be sent to your GP.

If you have any questions prior to your appointment, please call us to speak to our nurse.