In addition to assessing the structure of the cardiovascular system, MRI can be used to evaluate the perfusion (blood flow) through the heart in rest and under stress.
Short term medication load can then be prescribed to evaluate the function of the heart under stress to look for blockages. Stress Cardiac MRI is indicated when coronary artery disease or coronary stenosis (blockage) is suspected.
The scan is non-invasive and allows for visualisation of the heart’s shape, size and function as well. Most Stress Cardiac MRI scans take up to an hour, but can sometimes require as much as two hours to complete the study.
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye