Yes, a cardiac MRI might use contrast. According to a radiologist, contrast medium (gadolinium) may be injected during the scan to help identify abnormalities within the heart muscle and highlight blood vessels.
Why is Contrast Used in Cardiac MRI?
Contrast agents, like gadolinium, enhance the visibility of specific tissues and structures in the heart. This helps doctors:
- Identify Heart Muscle Abnormalities: Contrast can highlight areas of damaged or scarred heart tissue.
- Visualize Blood Vessels: Contrast makes the coronary arteries and other blood vessels easier to see, helping to detect blockages or other issues.
How is Contrast Administered?
The contrast agent is typically injected intravenously (IV) before or during the cardiac MRI scan.
Who Decides if Contrast is Needed?
The radiologist supervising the procedure determines whether contrast is necessary based on the patient's specific condition and the information needed from the scan.
