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What is cardiac MRI?

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to take pictures of your child’s heart. Doctors use the test to evaluate the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels.

It’s considered "non-invasive" because the machine takes pictures without entering the body. MRI doesn’t use X-rays or radioactive radiation.

Why is a cardiac MRI performed?

A cardiac MRI is done to evaluate the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels. An MRI may provide your child’s doctor with information about your child’s heart that can’t be obtained by other tests.

What can I expect during a cardiac MRI?

A cardiac MRI usually lasts 45 to 90 minutes. The MRI machine sits in a large room and looks like a tunnel. Your child will lie down on a table that slides into the tunnel.

The MRI machine makes loud banging and clicking noises during most of the exam. You child will get earplugs to soften the noise and can watch a movie or listen to music.

During the MRI, your child may be asked to hold his or her breath for brief periods (10 to 20 seconds). This helps create clearer pictures.

Some children receive a contrast dye, called gadolinium, during the exam to help get a better picture of blood vessels or heart muscle. The medicine is given through an intravenous line (IV) placed before the exam.

Will my child need sedation or anesthesia?

To get clear pictures, your child needs to remain still in the MRI scanner during the test. Young children and those who can’t lie still or are afraid of the machine may need to be sedated or have general anesthesia.

Some children may experience anxiety inside the tunnel (claustrophobia).

How we approach cardiac MRI

The Boston Children's Hospital Division of Cardiac Imaging is among the largest and most advanced programs in the country, staffed by 20 radiologists and cardiologists who are specifically trained in pediatric cardiac imaging. Currently, we perform more than 1,200 exams each year.

Our team also offers expertise in all imaging modalities, including:

We ensure that each patient receives the right test at the right time with the right technique. No matter what type of imaging test your child is having, our team specializes in kid-friendly care. All our clinicians are experienced in working with children and know how to make them feel comfortable during any type of imaging process.

Practitioners Who Specialize In This Condition (11)

David Schidlow, MD, MMus

David Schidlow, MD, MMus

Director, Heterotaxy Program; Senior Associate Cardiologist, Department of Cardiology
Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School
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Cardiology

The Department of Cardiology at the Benderson Family Heart Center is the largest pediatric cardiology center in the United States and one of the most specialized in the world.

Call 617-355-2079