Cardiac MR Viability Imaging Exam
Cardiac Viability MRI Examination is considered the gold standard for evaluating cardiac viability after infarction. It is a reliable tool for assessing myocardial infarction and predicting the patient’s outcome after revascularization.
Clinical Indications for cardiac viability MRI:
- Determine the location, and extent of myocardial necrosis post acute myocardial infarction
- Determine viability prior to revascularization
- Establish likelihood of recovery of function with revascularization (PCI or CABG) or medical therapy
- Evaluation and quantification of LV function following myocardial infarction OR in heart failure patients
- Evaluation of cardiac mass or pericardial conditions
- Evaluation of pulmonary veins prior to radiofrequency ablation (MAZE procedure) for atrial fibrillation
In order to obtain diagnostic images, the patient must able to perform the followings:
- Able to lay supine for approximately 45 min
- Hold breath for 10-15 second intervals
- Stay still and follow breathing instructions
- No contraindication to MRI or gadolinium injection
Normal Cardiac MRI
