Heart MRI
Alternate Names : Magnetic Resonance Imaging - Cardiac, MRI of the Heart, NMR - Cardiac, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance - Cardiac
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Risks
There is no ionizing radiation involved in MRI, and there have been no documented significant side effects of the magnetic fields and radio waves used on the human body to date. However, because the effects of strong magnetic fields on a fetus are not well documented at this time, pregnant women are usually advised to avoid MRI scans.
MRI is usually not recommended for acute trauma situations, because traction and
life-support equipment cannot safely enter the scanner area, and scan times are relatively lengthy.
The most common MR intravenous contrast agent, gadolinium, is very safe, and although there have been documented allergic reactions to it, this is extremely rare. If sedation is used, there are associated risks of oversedation. The technologist monitors the patient's vital signs, including heart rate and respiration, as needed.
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