Cardiac MRI or Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging is actually a test that is being used to assess and evaluate a patient's heart. This is an accurate test that can provide accurate findings of the heart, its function and structure. This test is also being used to evaluate the blood vessel of the heart and its status. It is considered noninvasive because surgery is not needed in the process and there are no instruments inserted in the body to have a detailed picture of the patients' heart and all its tissues.

In MRI testing, injecting contrast (gadolinium) is necessary in order to obtain information about the heart's blood supply as well as to know the amount of the scarring heart muscles, if any. There are various reasons why this test is being conducted. It is actually being used to investigate any unusual findings or structural abnormalities noted in the imaging test. This test is also used to monitor the thickness of heart's muscles, its function, and size. It is also being used to assess if the heart and its function can be improved through an angioplasty or bypass surgery especially to patients who have previous damage in the heart muscles.

Cardiac MRI will be used if immediate evaluation is required from a patient's heart and other parts of it like the aorta, pulmonary arteries, pericardium, etc. Prior to test, the patient must be prepared physically and emotionally. If there is a need for contrast injection, the patient must go on a fasting three hours before undergoing the test. The need to attached electrodes on the chest area is necessary in this test.

Cardiac MRI is a common test to people because it is widely used in hospitals and clinics in order to assess as well as diagnose different conditions, illness, and diseases related to the heart including heart attack and related damages, heart valve conditions, heart failure, cardiac tumors and many more.

MRI testing is proven safe and effective since there will be no radiation exposure. Side effects are highly rare. Some patients will just feel anxious, and others may feel claustrophobic when inside the scanner. This test is actually not dangerous. However, patients may feel uncomfortable. Listening to music and closing the eyes can be a way to help a patient feel relaxed when undergoing the test. There will be a technician to assist the patient and will be in contact with the patient, this person will let the patient know what's happening while on the test. If necessary, the patient will be given medication to relax. The gadolinium injection is also safe, and it has low risks of developing side effects.

Cardiac MRI test usually takes one to two and a half hours. The electrodes will be attached on the patient's chest in order to monitor the heart as well as its rhythm. Health care providers will see to it that the patient is relaxed and comfortable while inside the scanner. The patient will lie down on the scanner and needs to be quite for several minutes and will be required to hold breath intermittently while photos of the heart are being taken.