MRI Scan Guide
Overview
A cardiac MRI produces detailed images of the heart, including the chambers, valves, myocardium (heart muscle), and major blood vessels. It is considered the gold standard for evaluating cardiac structure and function.
Cardiac MRI is used to diagnose cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, heart valve disease, congenital heart defects, and to assess the extent of damage after a heart attack. It provides information that echocardiography and CT cannot, particularly regarding tissue characterization.
The scan requires ECG gating (synchronization with your heartbeat) and often involves contrast administration. It is painless and does not use ionizing radiation.
The procedure
ECG leads are placed on your chest to synchronize the scan with your heartbeat. You lie on the scanner table with a cardiac coil placed over your chest. The scan acquires images at specific points in the cardiac cycle, producing both still images and cine (moving) sequences that show the heart beating. You may be asked to hold your breath for 10 to 15 seconds during certain sequences. Total scan time is approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
Diagnostic value
Preparation
No fasting is required unless specified by the clinic.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal fastenings.
You will have ECG leads placed on your chest.
Inform the clinic about any cardiac devices, pacemakers, or defibrillators.
Practice holding your breath for 10 to 15 seconds, as this may be required during the scan.
Echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) is the first-line imaging test for most cardiac conditions. It is widely available, portable, and provides real-time images. Cardiac MRI is used when echocardiography is inconclusive or when more detailed information is needed, particularly regarding tissue characterization (identifying fibrosis, inflammation, or iron overload). The two tests are complementary.
Understanding your results
Every Mira scan comes with two reports. A medical report from a radiologist for your doctor, and a miraclarity report for you. The miraclarity report explains your cardiac MRI findings in straightforward language with visual guides, severity indicators, and recommended next steps.
No jargon. No waiting for another appointment just to understand what your scan found. miraclarity is included free with every scan.
Book your scan
A cardiac MRI typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
Some modern pacemakers and defibrillators are MRI-conditional, meaning they can be safely scanned under specific conditions. This must be confirmed before your appointment.
Cardiac CT is primarily used for coronary artery calcium scoring and CT angiography. Cardiac MRI provides superior assessment of heart muscle, valves, and tissue characterization without radiation.
A knee MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the knee joint. Unlike X-rays, which show only bones, MRI reveals soft tissues including ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and the meniscus. This makes it the primary diagnostic tool for knee injuries and conditions.
A brain MRI produces highly detailed images of the brain, brainstem, and surrounding structures. It is the preferred imaging method for evaluating neurological symptoms because it provides superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT and does not use ionizing radiation.
A lumbar spine MRI produces detailed images of the lower back, including the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding soft tissues. It is the most accurate non-invasive method for diagnosing causes of lower back pain.
A shoulder MRI provides highly detailed images of the rotator cuff, labrum, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bones of the shoulder joint. It is the most reliable non-invasive method for diagnosing shoulder injuries.
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