Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
(cMRI)
Risks
A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) test is considered safe for children and adults. Unlike some other forms of imaging, a cMRI doesn't use radiation. However, individuals have been harmed if metal is in their body or in the room. If individuals have a pacemaker, defibrillator, prosthetic joint, certain types of stents, surgical clips, mechanical heart valve, or other metallic devices in their body, they might not be eligible to undergo a cMRI; it just depends on the type of metallic device. Individuals must tell their doctor if they have metal implants and remove all external metal from their body before the test. Also, they should tell their doctor before the test if they have tattooed eyeliner, as tattoos contain metal that can be pulled by the magnetic field, which poses a risk when it’s that close to the eyes. The doctor can tell individuals if a cMRI is safe for them, and the cMRI staff is often very knowledgeable about these risks as well.
In addition, individuals can’t have a "dye" injection for the cMRI test if they have a known allergy to MRI contrast (gadolinium). The contrast dye used in a cMRI doesn’t present a problem for those with an iodine allergy. If they have kidney failure, they should talk with their doctor.