Cardiac MRI: Procedure Details

How does a heart MRI work?Unlike some other forms of imaging, a cardiac MRI doesn’t use any radiation. It uses a massive magnet and radio waves to create high-quality images of your heart on a computer.AdvertisementHow do I prepare for a heart MRI?A heart MRI won’t harm you, but your healthcare provider may ask if you’re pregnant or if you have any metal inside your body. In some cases, an MRI may not be right for you. Some medical devices don’t work right or can interfere while you’re inside an MRI. Be prepared to tell your provider what kind of device you have, since certain types (like an intrauterine device or some pacemakers) aren’t safe in the MRI machine. Your healthcare provider can check their database to see which devices are safe and compatible with having an MRI.Your provider will also ask about any allergies you have, as well as health problems and surgeries in your history.If you get nervous or uncomfortable in tight spaces, ask your provider a few days in advance for a p...