What It Shows/Diagnoses
- Heart muscle damage or scarring
- Congenital heart disease
- Cardiomyopathy
- Valve disease
- Pericardial disease (inflammation around the heart)
- Blood flow and function (using contrast or perfusion imaging)
Safety Notes
Not all pacemakers or cardiac devices are MRI-safe. If you have a pacemaker or cardiac device, please provide our team the full details when booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your doctor may request this scan to evaluate your heart’s structure, function, and blood flow.
It helps diagnose heart muscle damage, congenital abnormalities, or valve disease.
Please avoid caffeine for 12 hours and fast for 2–4 hours before your scan.
Continue your usual medications unless otherwise advised.
You’ll lie on the MRI bed while electrodes monitor your heartbeat.
Some scans use contrast to show blood flow.
You’ll need to hold your breath briefly at times. The scan takes around 45–60 minutes.
Please advise us before booking.
Many devices are MRI-safe, but we will confirm compatibility.
Yes, but MRI safety screening is essential.
Our team will review any implants or prior cardiac procedures before your scan.
Results are typically available within 48 hours, sent to your cardiologist or referring doctor.
About Your Test
Before your appointment
- Avoid caffeine for 12 hours before your scan.
- You may need to fast for 2–4 hours.
- Continue regular medications unless told otherwise.
- Please bring a list of any implants or cardiac devices.
On the day
Electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor heart rhythm during the scan.
Some sequences require short breath-holds.
Duration is 45–60 minutes.
After your appointment
You can resume normal activities immediately.
Results are sent to your cardiologist or referring doctor.
Book your Cardiac MRI now
Experience advanced MRI imaging at South Coast Radiology.