MRI of the heart

Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the most informative methods of modern diagnostics. This method makes it possible to obtain images of different organs both at the moment of natural movement and at rest. In addition, MRI images are taken in 2-3 projections with high resolution, this allows to investigate the functional features of the organ.

MRI in cardiology and cardiac surgery is an extremely useful method. With its help, study the work of the heart, the functioning of valves, changes in all cardiac chambers during contraction, movement of blood flow in large vessels (pulmonary artery, aorta). Undoubtedly, MRI images are indispensable in the study of heart defects, with myocardial infarction and coronary heart disease.

How does MRI work?

During the procedure, the patient is irradiated with electric waves, placing in an external magnetic field. Irradiated cells absorb the energy of electromagnetic radiation. The degree of absorption is called a resonance, and it is possible to measure it. After the irradiation stops, the cells give away the received energy, and this is fixed by special sensors. Analyzing the indicators of the returned and received energy, the computer program reproduces pictures of exposed tissues.

Recording of MRI is carried out by ultrathin sections, layer by layer. Therefore, the doctor, when analyzing the results, can also see changes in the depth of the heart tissue.

MRI of the heart is performed both with the use of contrast agents, and without, it depends on the tasks and the specific case. Contrast substances are used to diagnose pre-infarction, postinfarction, ischemic and inflammatory changes in the myocardium.

Most often the contrast material is gadolinium - the drug gadopentetate dimeglumine (gadopentetate dimeglumine).

The results of MRI in cardiology make it possible to determine the tactics of surgery after a heart attack with high accuracy. By analyzing the changes in the tissues of the heart, it is possible to pinpoint the changes that have arisen due to scarce blood supply (ischemia) in the ventricular wall. Ischemia provokes abnormal contraction. MRI allows a detailed study of the extent of these changes and the question of whether aorto-coronary bypass surgery is necessary . If an increased amount of gadolinium accumulates in the areas of the myocardium, this indicates irreversible necrotic changes in the tissues of the heart. CABG surgery can restore blood flow, bypassing blocked areas of blood flow. But if tissue necrosis is established, then surgical intervention will not give the desired result, producing an unnecessary burden on the body. However, when necrosis is absent, CABG will save the patient's heart. For this reason, MRI of the heart plays an important role in the decision of cardiosurgical tasks.

If we compare MRI with echocardiography or positron emission tomography, then we can talk about the next strong side of magnetic resonance imaging: the accumulation of gadolinium makes it possible to identify with high accuracy the segments of the nonviable and viable myocardium located inside the wall of the muscle tissue of the heart.

MRI of the heart: procedure

In the area of action of the MRI device, the patient lies motionless, since movements worsen the quality of the image. The duration of the procedure can take from 30 minutes to 90 minutes. The office where the check is conducted is well lit and ventilated. During the survey, medical personnel are required to provide a comfortable patient.

Contraindication to MRI may be an installed pacemaker, metal implants and other similar items.

Otherwise, for the MRI of the heart does not need special training.