Cardiavc MRI examination is increasingly used to investigate the cause of heart disease when ultrasound and other basic examinations have not provided sufficient answers. MRI is based on signals generated by a strong magnetic field from tissues, and it offers excellent resolution for visualizing cardiac structures.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination
Cardiac MRI provides detailed information about the structure and function of the heart.
Important
Details of the examination may vary between units. Always read the patient instructions you receive well in advance of the examination.
You will receive patient instructions explaining how to prepare for the examination.
Remember to complete the pre-information form and bring it with you to the appointment. A radiographer will review the form with you before the examination.
If you know or suspect that you are pregnant, inform your treating physician or mention it when you arrive for the examination.
Because the imaging involves a strong magnetic field, all metal-containing items such as watches, glasses, removable dental prostheses, jewelry, mobile phones, and bank cards must be removed before entering the examination room.
Internal metallic objects such as coronary stents or pacemaker leads are not contraindications for MRI, but pacemaker leads may affect image quality, and the pacemaker must be checked before and after the examination.
The MRI scanner is a hollow tube in which you will lie down. The tube has a diameter of 70 cm and is open at both ends, well-lit, and ventilated.
In most cardiac MRI examinations, a contrast agent is administered via a cannula placed in a vein in your arm. ECG cables are attached to your chest, and a so-called imaging coil is placed on your chest.
During the imaging, the machine makes loud noises, so hearing protection is provided. The MRI takes approximately 45 minutes. You will be given a call button to contact the staff if needed. Successful imaging requires you to remain still.
Cardiac MRI does not require follow-up and does not restrict normal daily activities. Any contrast agent used during the examination is excreted in urine within a few hours. MRI contrast agents are generally well tolerated, and serious allergic reactions are rare. Possible reactions can be prevented and treated with medication.
If contrast agent has been used in the examination, breastfeeding mothers must have a breastfeeding break after the examination. Milk expressed during the break should be discarded. The healthcare staff will provide detailed instructions to breastfeeding mothers after the examination.
A radiologist will review and interpret the MRI images and write a report. The physician who referred you for the examination will inform you of the results and discuss further treatment. Contact your care unit if you do not have a scheduled appointment or call time.
Cardiac MRI is painless and has not been shown to have adverse effects.
MRI is not suitable for everyone; some implants and foreign objects in the body, such as pacemakers or metal fragments, may prevent imaging or require special arrangements. In such cases, a cardiac CT examination is an alternative imaging method.
How do I prepare for a cardiac MRI?
You will receive patient instructions explaining how to prepare for the examination.
Remember to complete the pre-information form and bring it with you to the appointment. A radiographer will review the form with you before the examination.
If you know or suspect that you are pregnant, inform your treating physician or mention it when you arrive for the examination.
What happens during a cardiac MRI?
Because the imaging involves a strong magnetic field, all metal-containing items such as watches, glasses, removable dental prostheses, jewelry, mobile phones, and bank cards must be removed before entering the examination room.
Internal metallic objects such as coronary stents or pacemaker leads are not contraindications for MRI, but pacemaker leads may affect image quality, and the pacemaker must be checked before and after the examination.
The MRI scanner is a hollow tube in which you will lie down. The tube has a diameter of 70 cm and is open at both ends, well-lit, and ventilated.
In most cardiac MRI examinations, a contrast agent is administered via a cannula placed in a vein in your arm. ECG cables are attached to your chest, and a so-called imaging coil is placed on your chest.
During the imaging, the machine makes loud noises, so hearing protection is provided. The MRI takes approximately 45 minutes. You will be given a call button to contact the staff if needed. Successful imaging requires you to remain still.
What should I be aware of after a cardiac MRI?
Cardiac MRI does not require follow-up and does not restrict normal daily activities. Any contrast agent used during the examination is excreted in urine within a few hours. MRI contrast agents are generally well tolerated, and serious allergic reactions are rare. Possible reactions can be prevented and treated with medication.
If contrast agent has been used in the examination, breastfeeding mothers must have a breastfeeding break after the examination. Milk expressed during the break should be discarded. The healthcare staff will provide detailed instructions to breastfeeding mothers after the examination.
A radiologist will review and interpret the MRI images and write a report. The physician who referred you for the examination will inform you of the results and discuss further treatment. Contact your care unit if you do not have a scheduled appointment or call time.
Are there any risks associated with cardiac MRI?
Cardiac MRI is painless and has not been shown to have adverse effects.
MRI is not suitable for everyone; some implants and foreign objects in the body, such as pacemakers or metal fragments, may prevent imaging or require special arrangements. In such cases, a cardiac CT examination is an alternative imaging method.
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Updated 12.11.2025