A cardiac MRI gives doctors a unique opportunity to view images of the heart while it’s beating. Like traditional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses magnets, radio waves and a computer to take images of the organs and tissues, cardiac MRI is used to examine the structure of the heart throughout its pumping cycle and to diagnose and assess heart conditions more effectively than with other imaging methods.
Compared to some other diagnostic tests, cardiac MRI is non-invasive and does not produce any radiation (compared to an X-ray). It can also be helpful in interpreting the results of other tests like CT scans.
Conditions a cardiac MRI can detect and help assess include:
You've probably seen what an MRI scanner looks like from movies and television. For a cardiac MRI you will lie down on a long bed that glides into a lighted tubular chamber. You may be given something intravenously called a contrast agent (not a dye, as some people are sensitive to dyes), which makes its way to your heart and makes it easier to see details in the images taken.
The entire process takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 75 minutes. You are awake and conscious the entire time, but you may sometimes be asked to hold your breath. This is to help ensure the images obtained have no movement and are as clear as possible. A two-way intercom allows you to communicate with the MRI technician as needed.
Our board-certified gynecologists are dedicated to serving you at every stage of your life, from adolescence to menopause and beyond. Whether you need treatment for common gynecological issues or advanced therapies and surgical expertise, we're here to provide comprehensive care and support.
Orthopaedic doctors at Main Line Health treat simple to complex sports and accident-related injuries as well as the painful effects of many conditions that limit your mobility and cause pain. Find an orthopaedic surgeon near me.
Discover how Main Line Health experts serve Philadelphia by treating a wide range of conditions, including back, neck and oncology-related pain.
We offer streamlined access to a team of medical, surgical, behavioral health and support specialists, in partnership with Main Line Health LGBTQ Inclusive Care for gender-affirming care.
Discover how Main Line Health neurosurgeons provide expert care, from routine to complex spinal and nervous system conditions for patients.
Palliative care at Main Line Health is a service offered to seriously ill hospitalized patients. At the request of the patient's physician, the palliative care team recommends pain and symptom management.
Receive inclusive LGBTQ+ medical care at Main Line Health in a compassionate and welcoming space at locations in the Philadelphia region.
Main Line Health provides life-saving care and urgent support at trauma centers located throughout the Philadelphia region.
