Cardiac MRI

    Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) creates detailed images of your heart and blood vessels using computer-generated radio waves and a powerful magnetic field. It is painless, non-invasive and generally safe, though there are special considerations with implantable devices.

    A private cardiac MRI also helps our cardiologists plan treatment and monitor recovery over time, offering precise measurements without radiation exposure. It supports early detection and provides clarity when other tests come back inconclusive.

    • Mayo Clinic Healthcare uses cardiac MRI to diagnose a number of heart conditions, including:

      Besides diagnosing conditions, cardiac MRI can assess:

      • Heart chamber size and function
      • Heart wall movement and thickness
      • Damage to the heart caused by various conditions
      • Structural problems in the aorta, such as aneurysms or dissections
      • Blood vessel blockage and inflammation
    • For most people, there are no preparations required for a private cardiac MRI. You can eat and drink normally and take your usual medications.

      You will need to arrive in the clinic at least 15 minutes before your appointment time. There will also be a questionnaire to answer beforehand to determine if you can safely receive an MRI scan as certain types of implanted devices contain metal that are attracted to magnets. A member of staff will go through your completed MRI safety questionnaire.

    • At the clinic, you will need to change into a gown and remove anything metal, such as jewellery, glasses and hearing aids. A technician will insert an IV line into your arm or hand to deliver contrasting dye during the scan.

      During the scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a long tube. If you are claustrophobic, you may receive a mild sedative. You'll be able to talk by microphone to the technician conducting the scan. If you prefer, we'll provide earplugs and let you select music to help block the noise of the MRI.

      You will be asked to lie still as movements can cause blurring. Once you are ready a camera will be placed on top of your chest to capture the images. You will have electrodes and monitoring devices attached  to your skin.

      The technician will also instruct you to “breathe in, breathe out and hold your breath” multiple times. This helps the MRI scanner to produce clearer images of your heart and chest. During the procedure your heart rate and breathing will be monitored by the scanner so that pictures can be taken in time with your breathing and heartbeat.

    • Cardiac MRI can take from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on your condition and the number of images that we will need to take.

    • Once your examination has been completed, you can resume your normal activities and eat and drink normally.

    • Your images will be sent to the cardiologist or radiologist for reporting, which should be completed within 24 hours. The final report will be sent to your referring consultant.

    Private health insurance for a Cardiac MRI

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, you can receive second opinions on any medical condition. 

    Request an Appointment

    Our team is available to help arrange your private Cardiac MRI, answer your questions and guide you through each step of your care.

    Whether you are seeking diagnosis, treatment or ongoing support, our imaging specialists are here to help you move forward with confidence.

    Request an appointment with us today.