Heart MRI

Description

Heart magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging method that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the heart. It does not use radiation (x-rays). Single magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film. Cardiac MRI helps your doctor detect or monitor cardiac disease by: evaluating the anatomy and function of the heart chambers, heart valves, size of and blood flow through major vessels, and the surrounding structures such as the pericardium (the sac that surrounds the heart). Cardiac MRI can show blockages and reduced blood flow in larger sections of your coronary arteries. It is not as effective at diagnosing blockages in smaller sections. A cardiac MRI is usually requested if someone has more advanced or complex heart conditions. It is often ordered after other tests have been done. It can be used to look at: Blood vessels and how blood flows through them.