Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical diagnostic technique that utilises radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create images of the heart without the use of X-rays.

MRI is a versatile, powerful and sensitive tool that can generate multi-planar images of the heart. This enables the structure and function of the heart to be studied.

Using MRI, movie-like images of the beating heart can be used to diagnose a variety of cardiovascular problems including whether the blood flow is blocked, or whether the heart muscles are damaged.

What to eat

As contrast injection is required, please fast for at least four hours prior to your appointment. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed.

Be punctual

Please come to the MRI Centre 30 minutes before your appointment time. This will enable us to take your full medical history and prepare you for the examination.

Inform us of your medical history

If you have any of these, please let us or your doctor know:

Pacemaker
Artificial heart valves
Neuro-stimulators
Metallic clips used in brain surgery
Implanted hearing aids
Metal implants
Metal sharpnels in the body
Metal fragments in your eyes
Intra-uterine contraceptive devices
Prosthesis
Dentures

All metallic objects must be removed before entering the magnet room.

Before the examination

	You will be asked to fill in a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Screening Questionnaire on your medical history. This is required to ensure MRI safety issues are complied.
	You will be asked to remove items like your wallet, watch, keys and magnetic strip cards (eg. ATM and credit cards). Lockers are provided.
	You will be asked to change into a gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles or zippers.
	ECG leads will be placed on your chest. It may be necessary to shave your chest to obtain a good signal.
	An intravenous line will be placed in your arm. This is a enable an injection to be given during the examination.

During the MRI

	You will be positioned on a padded table with ECG leads and respiratory bellows positioned on your body. A special cardiac coil will be placed behind and in front of your chest wall.
	You will slowly be moved into the magnet that surrounds the body with a magnetic field.
	Once you are comfortably positioned, it is important that you remain relaxed and completely still during the scan. Movement will result in unclear images.
	Breathe normally, as there is nothing about the procedure to make you uncomfortable.
	You will notice a faint knocking and intermittent humming and thumping sound which represents the changes in the magnetic field. Earplugs will be provided.
	You will have voice contact with the radiographer at all times and you can be seen clearly from the control room.
	You will be asked to stop breathing intermittently during the examination. Please follow the instructions as this is critical in obtaining good images of your heart.
	Halfway through the examination, you will be given an intravenous injection. You may feel slight warmness during the injection.
	After the injection, you will be asked to hold your breath again intermittently.

Radiologic Clinic (Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre)