Cardiac MRI is one of the most important imaging techniques for the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases and the assessment of the anatomy and functionality of the heart. It is a highly accurate examination that uses only the properties of a simple magnetic field. Most often, the examination requires the administration of a special contrast agent, which is generally safe and does not affect kidney function.
In which cases is cardiac MRI indicated
Cardiac MRI is currently the exclusive non-invasive method for diagnosing myocarditis, both acute and chronic. However, the examination is useful, even necessary, in a large number of heart diseases, such as:
- Pericarditis
- Ischemic and infiltrative cardiomyopathy
- Mediterranean anemia
- Valvular diseases of congenital and acquired cardiomyopathies of non-ischemic etiology
- Heart failure
- Arterial and pulmonary hypertension
- Heart tumors
Magnetic heart imaging is indicated even for those who do not have a known cardiac problem, but who maintain some concerns about the good health of their heart, given the non-use of ionizing radiation.
How is the MRI examination performed
The examination takes approximately 40-45 minutes. During the examination, the patient lies supine on the MRI table, listening to music of his choice, while in constant audio-visual communication with the MRI technologist for anything he may need.
Sometimes he will be asked to hold his breath for a few seconds following the technologist’s clear instructions, to maximize the quality of the heart images produced. A venous catheter is placed in the patient’s arm to administer the contrast medium, which is absolutely necessary for a more detailed visualization of the anatomy and possible pathological findings of the heart.
The Euromedica diagnostic centers have the most advanced magnetic resonance imaging machines that ensure high-quality diagnostic and imaging results while maximizing the patient’s comfort level during the examination.