Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create pictures of your heart without using ionizing radiation.
Our doctors use highly sophisticated cardiac MRI techniques to characterize the structure and function of the heart, to detect coronary artery disease through stress testing, and to diagnose a variety of heart conditions such as:
To request an appointment, contact the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute:
A cardiac MRI uses a magnetic resonance imaging machine to create pictures of your heart, without using ionizing radiation.
The UPMC Advanced Cardiac Imaging Program uses a short and wide bore, “smart” magnetic resonance scanner, which can accommodate a greater range of patients than traditional MRI scanners.
The UPMC Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Center at UPMC Presbyterian has the only dedicated CMR in western Pennsylvania that is capable of imaging patients up to 550 pounds. Other features include the widespread use of motion corrected (moco) pulse sequences which minimizes the need for breath holding during examination.
You may need a cardiac MRI if you have:
Tell your doctor:
Before the test, you will remove any clothing above your waist and put on a hospital gown.
You may receive an IV so you can get medicine during the test. We may inject contrast material, call gadolinium, through the IV in order to get a better picture of your heart. Gadolinium does not contain iodine.
Common results of a cardiac MRI include:
No harmful effects from the strong magnetic field are known, though the magnet may affect some implanted devices.
If contrast material is used, there is a slight risk of an allergic reaction or an infection at the injection site. In rare cases, contrast material can harm people with severe kidney or liver disease.
The cost of a cardiac MRI varies depending on your insurance provider. Please call the physician’s office to verify insurance coverage and cost.