A Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) test is a noninvasive, painless medical procedure that helps physicians diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions.

MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed images of the heart and vascular system. As a treating physician, you may order a Cardiac MRI for a patient in order to evaluate the structures and function of the heart, valves and major vessels, or detect and evaluate coronary artery disease.

Cardiac MRI allows radiologists and physicians examine the size and thickness of the chambers of the heart, and determine the extent of damage caused by a heart attack or progressive heart disease. It may also be used to detect the buildup of plaque and blockages in the blood vessels.

Detailed Cardiac MRI images may allow physicians to better evaluate a patient's cardiovascular health more adequately than other imaging methods such as X-ray, Ultrasound or Computed Tomography (CT).