MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It's a medical test that uses a strong magnet, radio waves and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of your body. Your doctor may refer you to a hospital for a specialist Cardiac MRI scan if you're experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, or swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet. These symptoms can be a sign of heart disease or heart failure, which is a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
A Cardiac MRI scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the heart and blood vessels. It can help diagnose a range of heart conditions, including heart valve problems, heart muscle damage, or inflammation. By identifying any potential issues early on, this scan can help develop a personalised treatment plan to improve your heart health and prevent any further complications.
At Blackrock Health, we have some of Ireland's most respected cardiologists, and cardiac & vascular surgeons on our team. No other hospital group in Ireland has as many female cardiologists. The Blackrock Clinic, in particular, has a long history of pioneering the newest heart treatments and procedures. Our three hospitals, the Blackrock, Galway, and Hermitage Clinics, ensure best practice in care. We provide minimally invasive treatments and the latest technology as well as traditional techniques. Blackrock Health also offers fast access to the five cath labs in our three hospitals. We provide the most accurate diagnostics and effective care plan possible, with the least possible delay. We offer easy access to our teams of consultants and clinical experts and are committed to helping you achieve optimal heart and vascular health. We understand that waiting for diagnostic results can be stressful. That's why we offer fast access to our state-of-the-art Cardiac MRI scanning facilities in Blackrock and Hermitage Clinics.
Cardiac MRI
Blackrock Health offers Cardiac MRI to patients through our Blackrock and Hermitage Clinics. This is a non-invasive imaging test that provides information about the structure and function of the heart. It can help diagnose a wide range of heart conditions.
During a cardiac MRI scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a large, tube-shaped machine. The machine contains a strong magnet that creates a magnetic field around your body. As MRI uses strong magnets, it is vital that you do not wear anything metal, or have metal objects in your body, such as from previous surgery or piercings. You should inform staff about any previous metal implants in advance of your MRI procedure. Radio waves are then used to create images of the heart, which are processed by a computer.
The cardiac MRI scan can produce highly detailed images of your heart's structures and blood vessels. This allows your doctor to evaluate the size and shape of your heart. It also shows the thickness of your heart muscle, and the function of your heart valves. Additionally, the scan can provide information about blood flow to your heart muscle and detect areas of damaged or diseased tissue.
Cardiac MRI scans are used to diagnose a wide range of heart conditions. The list includes coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, heart muscle damage, and congenital heart defects. The scan is also used to track the progress of heart conditions over time and assess the effectiveness of treatment.
Cardiac MRI scans are safe and non-invasive and do not involve any exposure to radiation. The test can take up to an hour to complete. After the cardiac MRI, your doctor will receive a report of the results. They will discuss the findings with you and recommend any necessary follow-up care or treatment.
How do I get this?
You will need a referral letter from your GP or consultant before you make an appointment.
Is this insured?
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance Cover Check page, or by contacting your health insurer.
How do I pay?
If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.