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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Heart MRI Scan
Introduction
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the heart is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed pictures of the heart's structure and function. It uses powerful magnets and radio waves instead of X-rays, making it a safe procedure without radiation exposure.
Why is a Heart MRI Performed?
Doctors may recommend a heart MRI for various reasons: - Diagnosing heart conditions : Evaluating congenital heart defects, heart valve diseases, and myocarditis. - Assessing heart muscle health : Detecting scarring, inflammation, or thickening of heart tissue. - Examining heart function : Measuring how well the heart pumps blood. - Checking for heart failure : Analyzing myocardial viability (the ability of heart tissue to recover from damage).
How is the Procedure Done?
- Preparation : You may be asked to avoid caffeine before the test, and metal objects should be removed.
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During the scan
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- You will lie inside an MRI machine.
- A contrast agent (like gadolinium) may be injected to improve image clarity.
- The scan usually takes 30-60 minutes while you must remain very still.
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After the scan
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- There is no recovery time unless sedation was used.
- Results are reviewed by a radiologist and sent to your doctor.
Risks and Limitations
- Not suitable for all : People with pacemakers or metallic implants may not be eligible.
- Claustrophobia : Some patients may find it difficult to stay in the enclosed space.
- Allergic reaction : Rare but possible with the contrast agent.
Conclusion
Cardiac MRI is a crucial tool in modern cardiology, providing accurate, detailed imaging of the heart. If your doctor recommends one, it’s generally safe and highly informative.
Source recommendations
1. American College of Cardiology Expert Consensus Decision Pathway on Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2022.11.022
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2022/03/15/21/55/2022-ACC-Expert-Consensus-on-CV-Sequelae-of-COVID
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2024.10.080
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39665703/
- https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2023/01/19/14/49/2023-acc-consensus-on-cardiac-amyloidosis
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiovascular Imaging
- https://www.escardio.org/Sub-specialty-communities/European-Association-of-Cardiovascular-Imaging-(EACVI)
- https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging/article/16/9/919/2399830
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Scientific-Documents/Recommendations-and-position-papers
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26139361/
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Recommended-Reading/Cardiovascular-Imaging
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.