What to bring on the day of your cardiac MRI
- Any recent test related to the reason for referral
- Previous imaging studies of the same area
- A medical note from your referring physician indicating the reason for the examination
- The referral form provided by your doctor
- Any prescribed medications and the creatinine blood test, if not already performed at Metropolitan Hospital
- A valid form of identification (e.g. ID card, passport, driver’s license) and your social security number
How the exam is performed
For maximum safety, you will be asked to complete a brief questionnaire before the exam. Due to the strong magnetic field, you must remove all metal objects before entering the MRI room (e.g. jewelry, belts, hearing aids, glasses, removable dental prosthetics).
To simulate physical stress, adenosine will be administered during the exam.
You will lie on your back on a narrow examination table that slides into the MRI scanner. During the procedure, you will hear loud noises, but the technician will be able to communicate with you via intercom at all times.
The total duration of the exam does not exceed 45 minutes.
How to prepare
- Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks) for at least 12 hours before your exam
- You may take your regular medications at the usual time unless instructed otherwise
- Since an intravenous contrast agent will be administered, you must have a creatinine blood test done within 30 days prior to the MRI. If you prefer, the test can be performed on the same day at Metropolitan Hospital, but allow 1 hour for results to be processed
Special conditions
- If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator:
You may undergo the exam only if the device is MRI-compatible (MRI-conditional). In this case, the device must be checked and programmed in advance. Please contact 210 480 9171 (08:00–14:00) to schedule this. - If you have pulmonary conditions (e.g. COPD or asthma):
These may be contraindications for this exam. Please consult your doctor. - If you are pregnant or breastfeeding:
MRI without contrast can be safely performed during pregnancy. Contrast-enhanced MRI is not contraindicated breastfeeding. - If you suffer from claustrophobia:
Ask your doctor about a mild sedative for the day of the exam. You may also consider receiving conscious sedation (mild anesthesia). For more information, contact the Radiology Department at 210 480 7082 (08:00–16:00). - If you are allergic to MRI contrast agents:
all the Radiology Department at 210 480 7082. Your doctor may prescribe preventive medication. A typical premedication protocol includes:
- 12 hours before: 2 tablets of Medrol 16 mg
- 2 hours before: 2 tablets of Medrol 16 mg
- 1 hour before: 1 tablet of Zirtek 5 mg
When to arrive
Please arrive 5–10 minutes before your appointment to complete the necessary paperwork. If using private insurance, you may need to arrive earlier.
After your exam
You may return to your daily activities immediately. It is recommended that you drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast agent from your system.
If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator, the device’s settings must be restored after the exam.
When and how you will receive your results
On the day of your exam, the front desk will inform you of the estimated date your results will be ready. Your report will be sent to the email you provide, and you can also access both the report and images via the My Ygeia app.