Why choose San Radiology for your Cardiac MRI?
San Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, located at Sydney Adventist Hospital, offers a comprehensive Cardiac MRI service led by expert radiologists and cardiologists using the latest imaging technology.
We utilise the GE 3T MRI Architect scanner with the latest Sonic DL software, delivering faster scan times with superior image quality Free-breathing scan technology, which assists patients with breathing difficulty (such as COPD), can greatly reduce the discomfort from breath-holding.
Expert Review & Tailored Imaging Protocols
Every referral is reviewed by our dedicated Cardiac MRI team, ensuring that you receive a customised imaging protocol tailored to your specific clinical needs. Every case is reviewed with the specialist team on-site during the scanning process, allowing for real-time assessment and protocol adjustments if necessary.
Full Quantitative Assessment in the Report
Our comprehensive reports include a full quantitative assessment, providing precise measurements of cardiac volumes, ejection fraction, myocardial strain, tissue characterisation, and flow analysis to assist in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Support for Anxious & Claustrophobic Patients
Our highly trained staff have achieved a remarkable success rate in guiding claustrophobic and anxious patients through their scans with minimal discomfort
Pre-scan Patient Consultation
If requested, a senior radiographer can contact you prior to the appointment to discuss your needs and answer any concerns to ensure you are fully prepared for the procedure. This personalised approach helps optimise patient comfort and ensures the best possible imaging outcome.
Highly Experienced Specialists
Our team of expert cardiologists and radiologists specialises in advanced cardiac imaging, providing precise interpretation and seamless integration with ongoing cardiac care.
Why has my specialist referred me for a Cardiac MRI?
Your specialist may refer you to have a Cardiac MRI for assessment of a number of conditions, such as:
- Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) – Evaluating abnormalities in the heart’s electrical system and muscle integrity.
- Myocarditis – Detecting inflammation of the heart muscle.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) – Characterising thickened heart muscle and its impact on the heart’s function.
- Cardiomyopathies – Assessing different forms of heart muscle disease.
- Amyloidosis – Detecting abnormal protein deposits in the heart that affect its function.
- Cardiac tumours – Identifying and evaluating both benign and malignant growths in the heart.
- Congenital heart disease – Providing detailed structural imaging for congenital abnormalities.
- Heart valve disease – Assessing function and blood flow through the valves.
What should I expect during my Cardiac MRI examination?
Pre-Scan Assessment & Preparation
At the time of scheduling your examination, our bookings team will ask you a series of questions to ensure it is safe to proceed with the MRI. Some devices are contraindicated for MRI whilst others may require further vetting. For more information, please visit our MRI information page. (LINK TO MRI PAGE). You may be advised to avoid caffeine the day of the scan.
On the day of the examination, you will be asked to arrive 30mins prior to their examination, to complete MRI safety questionnaire and contrast consent forms. You will be asked to change into a gown and remove all metal objects including jewellery, watch, mobile phone and keys (wedding rings can stay on). An MRI radiographer will go over the safety questionnaire and contrast consent form with you to confirm your safety before entering the scanning room.
A small cannula will be placed in your arm/hand for injection of IV contrast during the scan. This will be explained in detail on the day and only used after your questions answered and consent obtained. Whilst ultimately your decision whether you consent to a contrast injection, it is often a very important part of Cardiac MRI examinations so if you have previously had a reaction to MRI contrast or have concerns, please raise this with the team at the time of booking. A Gadolinium injection is usually NOT given to patients who have seriously compromised renal (kidney) function, have had a previous reaction to Gadolinium contrast, or are pregnant.
The Imaging Process
You will lie comfortably on their back in the MRI scanner. ECG leads will be attached to your chest to monitor heart function during the scan. A specialised device (known as a “coil”) will be positioned over the chest to ensure optimal image quality. The radiographer will explain the necessary breathing instructions you will be asked will be informed to follow during the scan. Cardiac MRI scans usually involve an IV contrast injection. This will be discussed with you prior to your cannula being inserted to ensure you are happy proceed and explained again at the time of imaging. You will not feel a “hot flush” like you may have experienced with CT contrast, but perhaps a cool feeling up your arm. Normal imaging time ranges between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the scan.
Post-Scan Analysis & Results
All scans are carefully reviewed by our expert cardiac radiologists and cardiologists to ensure precise diagnosis. Results are shared with your referring physician for seamless integration into your ongoing care plan. Patients and referrers can also access the images anywhere, anytime through our online portal.
Do I need a referral to have a Cardiac MRI?
A referral from a doctor or specialist is required. Once received by our bookings team, each referral is individually assessed by our highly experienced Cardiac MRI team to determine the appropriate imaging approach.
What cost can I expect for my Cardiac MRI?
The cost of the scan varies depending on Medicare eligibility and private health coverage. Our team can provide detailed cost information when booking your appointment.
