CARDIAC MRI LONDON | MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING

£1,750 – £2,580

(Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) Scan)

  • Detailed, Non-Invasive Heart Imaging
  • Accurate Diagnosis of Complex Cardiac Conditions
  • Specialists Reviewed Heart MRI Reports
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CARDIAC MRI LONDON
  • Bupa health insurance accepted for cardiologist consultations with Dr Francesco Lo Monaco
  • Healix Health Services insurance accepted for cardiologist consultations with Dr Francesco Lo Monaco
  • Allianz health insurance accepted for cardiologist consultations with Dr Francesco Lo Monaco
  • Aviva health insurance accepted for cardiologist consultations with Dr Francesco Lo Monaco
  • AXA Health insurance accepted for cardiologist consultations with Dr Francesco Lo Monaco
  • Cigna health insurance accepted for cardiologist consultations with Dr Francesco Lo Monaco

    • WHAT IS A CARDIAC MRI SCAN?

    A Cardiac MRI is a non-invasive scan that captures high-resolution images of the heart chambers, valves, and muscles using strong magnetic and radio waves. This advanced imaging technique is used to check the anatomy of your heart, its functional ability, and general condition with greater accuracy. Your cardiologist often requests this scan to diagnose various heart conditions, including Cardiomyopathy, Coronary Artery Disease, and congenital issues, for thorough heart health insights. 

    HOW IS MRI OF THE HEART PERFORMED?

    During a cardiac MRI, you will be asked to lie flat on a bed that slides into a tunnel-shaped, open-ended MRI scanner. The scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce high-resolution images of the heart and typically takes around 45–60 minutes. At certain points, you may be asked to hold your breath briefly while images are captured. Your blood pressure is monitored at intervals throughout the scan. In some cases, a contrast dye is injected through an IV line to enhance image clarity. After the scan, you will be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye from your system.

    TYPES OF CARDIAC MRI SCANS

    Structural Assessment MRI

    A Structural Assessment MRI scan provides a detailed overview of the heart’s anatomy and major vessels. It is often requested to detect congenital heart conditions or tumours for clear visualisation of structural defects.

    Stress Perfusion MRI

    A Stress Perfusion Cardiac MRI uses adenosine and contrast to analyse the heart’s blood flow at rest and under stress to detect poor blood supply areas. The images of blood circulation in both conditions are then compared to check for any defects.  

    Cardiac Viability MRI

    A Cardiac Viability MRI (Perfusion and Delay) uses contrast to detect any scarring in the heart muscles that causes insufficient blood supply. It helps radiologists identify viable and permanently damaged areas in the heart.

    MRI Angiogram

    An MRI angiogram evaluates the main artery (aorta) and its branches supplying blood to the head and arms (Great Vessels). It visualises the vessel size and detects narrowing in the major blood vessels to reveal abnormal blood flow through the aorta.

    WHY DO YOU NEED A PRIVATE CARDIAC MRI SCAN?

    Magnetic Imaging of the heart is usually performed to detect a range of heart conditions, such as:

    • Cardiomyopathy

      Cardiac MRI checks for any weakened or thickened heart muscles, causing structural and functional abnormalities in the heart.

    • Congenital Heart Disease

      MRI helps detect congenital heart disorders, leading to structural or function defects in the heart without using X-rays. 

    • Arrhythmia

      Anyone experiencing palpitations, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, or fainting may require a private cardiac MRI to investigate hidden structural issues that are worsening their arrhythmic condition.

    • Aortic Heart Disease

      A family history of aortic aneurysms or suspected aortic enlargement requires a cardiac imaging scan for detailed assessment of the aorta.

    • Pericardial Abnormalities

      MRI shows heart issues, such as pericardial thickening, fluid buildup, or constriction that cause persistent chest pain, breathlessness, or swelling in the cardiac muscles.
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    FAQs

    A cardiac MRI scan does not use radiation, so is considered safe and painless. However, people with certain heart conditions, implants, or chronic kidney disease should consult their GP before undergoing the test.

    No, only the chest area goes inside the scanner. The cardiac MRI machine is open at both ends, so you can lie comfortably while the heart is scanned.

    Not all types of heart MRI tests need contrast. Some scans, such as Stress Perfusion or Viability MRI, require contrast to highlight blood flow and identify scar tissue.

    Cardiac MRI can detect areas of reduced blood flow, scarred tissues, or heart muscle damage, thus helping identify CAD and its severity.

    A private cardiac MRI in London typically ranges from a minimum of £700 without contrast to around £1,500 with contrast-enhanced MRI.

    Wear comfortable clothing and remove any metal objects or jewellery. Follow the fasting guidelines of your cardiologist and take the prescribed medicine before the scan. Tell your doctor if you have a medical implant, such as a Pacemaker or Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator (ICD).

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