MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than X-rays to provide a remarkably clear and detailed picture of internal organs and tissues.
MRI can provide information regarding:
- The size and thickness of the chambers of the heart
- Functional Assessment (Ejection Fractions and Volumes)
- Viability Assessment - (to assess whether heart muscle is alive, and therefore worth treating)
MRI can also be used for evaluating:
Pericardial diseases (constrictive pericarditis and collections)
Valvular diseases (especially aortic stenosis and regurgitation)
Congenital anomalies (for anatomy and vascular assessment)
Stress perfusion MRI (like stress thallium, to look for areas of hypoperfusion after stress), using adenosine
The advantages of MRI are that it is a fast and non-invasive technique which involves no exposure to radiation. It is able to provide clear images of soft tissue structures such as the heart and major vessels when compared to other imaging methods.
The only issues with MRI relate to the fact that patients with undetected metal implants may be affected by the strong magnetic field. This will be addressed by the radiographer attending to the patient.
