Cardiac MRI, Stress Cardiac Perfusion MRI or Chest MRI

Heart and Chest MRI

How do I prepare for my Chest MRI or Heart MRI exam?

You will be asked to arrive 20 minutes early for your appointment. Keep in mind that some cardiac exams may take up to 2 hours.
During check-in process you will be asked to fill out the MRI Safety Form, Click Here to view the form.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lock up your belongings.
You may take your usual medications with water. Otherwise, no additional preparation is needed.
If you have a history of any kidney problems you will need recent lab work that is current within 14 days from the date your exam is scheduled. For more detailed information please call the scheduling department at (916) 734-0655
Heart (Cardiac) exams are done in the Main Hospital only. This kind of exam is not done in ACC or Placer Clinics. For directions to the main hospital please click here.
Some Chest MRI exams are done in multiple locations. Please contact scheduling department to find out where you need to check in for your appointment at (916) 734-0655

What will happen during my Heart or Chest MRI exam?

During the exam you might be given an injection of contrast fluid called gadolinium. This will be administered through an IV line in your arm, placed at the beginning of the exam.
Before your exam we will place ECG leads on your chest. This will allow us to image your heart while it is beating. If you have hair on your chest, we will have to shave a part of your chest to place the ECG stickers.
For the MRI itself, you will lie on your back in the magnet for approximately 90 minutes – 2 hours. You will be given earplugs as the magnet creates a knocking sound during the exam.
You will be asked to hold your breath for about 15-20 seconds at a time; this will be repeated during your scan.
There are no restrictions after your exam and you may eat and drink as usual.
If you are claustrophobic, you may want to ask the doctor, who ordered your MRI, for a mild sedative to take before the exam. Please click here to be directed to our Comfort page.

1.5T GE Signa Magnet with Advance Cardiac Package

ECG Leads will be placed on your chest

Injection of Gadolinium contrast may be given

How do I prepare for my Cardiac Stress Perfusion MRI?

A nurse will contact you 24-48 hours before your exam with detailed instructions.
Please avoid caffeine 12 hours before your exam.
You will be asked to fast for 4 hours prior to your exam. You may take your usual medications with small amounts of water.
Cardiac Stress Perfusion exams are done in the Main Hospital only. This kind of exam is not done in ACC or Placer Clinics. For directions to the main hospital please click here. Please check in 1 hour prior to your appointment time in Radiology Reception room 1776.

What will happen before my Cardiac Stress Perfusion MRI exam?

You will be asked to show up 45 minutes before your appointment time. Your check in will be in the Main Hospital Radiology reception, room 1776.
During check-in process you will be asked to fill out the MRI Safety Form, Click Here to view the form.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lock up your belongings.
A nurse will start an IV; check your pulse, blood pressure and do electrocardiogram (EKG) test.
Radiologist will speak with you, explain the procedure and have you sign consent for your exam.
Technologist will place ECG leads on your chest. This will allow us to image your heart while it is beating. If you have hair on your chest, we will have to shave a part of your chest to place the ECG stickers.

What will happen during my Cardiac Stress Perfusion MRI exam?

For the MRI itself, you will lie on your back in the magnet for approximately 90 minutes.
You will be given earplugs as the magnet creates a knocking sound during the exam.
If you are claustrophobic, you may want to ask the doctor who ordered this MRI for a mild sedative to take before the exam. Please click here to be directed to our Comfort page.
Please make sure you have arranged for transportation back home if you decide to take anti-anxiety medications.
After the exam is complete, the technologist will remove the ECG leads and remove your IV. The radiologist will review the images and send a report to your physician.
There are no restrictions after your exam and you may eat and drink as usual.