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Cardiovascular MRI

Cardiovascular MRI at Oklahoma Heart Institute

  • Over 15 years of study;  1st study was done 6/3/99
  • 1st department of its kind in the United States
  • 300 clinical studies performed in Year one
  • Currently performing more than 3000 studies per year
  • Have grown from one CMR technologist to three; and one CMR cardiologist to three
  • Originally provided only outpatient services; now provide both inpatient and outpatient services
  • Have received patients from all round the US and other countries (Middle East, Mexico, Croatia)
  • International reputation
  • Well published in the medical literature
    • 15 scientific abstracts
    • 20 peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts
    • 4 book chapters
  • Mentioned in TIME magazine, NY Times, Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel
  • Have participated in 17 clinical research trials; two of which were started at OHI
  • First MRI center in the world to perform unrestricted  clinical MRI studies at 1.5 Tesla on patients in patients with pacemakers and ICDs
  • Recognized cardiovascular MRI training site; have trained over 35 physicians to perform clinical cardiovascular MRI studies

Overview

Cardiovascular MRI is a non-invasive test used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels. Because it uses large magnets and radio-frequency waves instead of x-rays to produce high quality still and moving pictures of the body’s internal structures, patients are not exposed to potentially harmful radiation. A cardiovascular MRI also allows physicians to obtain images of larger areas – such as the chest and entire cardiovascular system – from many angles. Your physician may recommend this test to provide information about the cardiovascular system that cannot be obtained with other tests.

During a cardiovascular MRI, patients are positioned on a moveable exam table. In some cases, straps and bolsters may be used to help patients lie completely still during the procedure. If a contrast material is used, a health professional will insert it through an intravenous (IV) line. This material helps physicians identify irregularities in the heart and surrounding vessels. Most cardiovascular MRI exams last no more than 20 minutes and are painless. A mild sedative may be given to patients who experience anxiety caused by small spaces or have difficulty remaining still during the procedure.

Click here for patient information on what to expect during an MRI scan