Cardiac MRI at Hospital CMQ in Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit

Tu estudio de Resonancia Magnética Cardíaca en Puerto Vallarta en Hospital CMQ

Medically reviewed by Dr. José Luis Argüelles Reynoso, Clinical Cardiology

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About the author: Meet Dr. José Luis Argüelles Reynoso! Clinical Cardiology Specialist in Puerto Vallarta with a subspecialty in Hemodynamics and Interventional Cardiology who joins our Cardiology Department at Hospital CMQ. Originally from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Dr. Argüelles Reynoso has built a solid academic and professional career in some of the most renowned hospitals in the country. He studied medicine at the University of Guadalajara. He graduated with a perfect grade point score of 97.2 out of 100. Subsequently, he completed a specialty degree in Internal Medicine.

Quick answer

A cardiac MRI is a non-invasive scan that uses magnetic fields (not radiation) to produce detailed, moving images of the heart's structure and how well it's pumping. It's typically ordered when other tests, like an echocardiogram, don't give a clear enough picture.

What Is a Cardiac MRI?

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging combines strong magnets and radio waves to build a highly detailed picture of the heart muscle, valves, and surrounding blood vessels. Unlike a CT scan, it doesn't use ionizing radiation, and it can distinguish healthy heart tissue from scarred or inflamed tissue with unusual precision.

When Is a Cardiac MRI Ordered?

To evaluate damage after a heart attack
To investigate suspected heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy) or inflammation (myocarditis)
To assess congenital heart conditions
To check heart valves or look for tumors and masses
When an echocardiogram doesn't provide enough detail for a diagnosis

How Should I Prepare?

You'll be asked about any metal implants, pacemakers, or devices, since some are not compatible with MRI. Avoid heavy meals right before the scan if contrast dye will be used, and wear clothing without metal fasteners. Let our team know if you have kidney problems or a history of claustrophobia, so we can plan accordingly.

What Happens During the Scan?

You'll lie on a padded table that slides into the MRI scanner. Small sensors are placed on your chest to sync the images with your heartbeat, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly several times. A contrast dye may be given through an IV to highlight certain tissues. The full scan usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and you can resume normal activities right afterward.

Everything in One Place

Imaging is only useful when it leads to a fast, clear next step. At Hospital CMQ, your cardiac MRI is read by radiology and reviewed together with cardiology, so results — and any needed treatment plan — are coordinated the same day whenever possible.

Ask your cardiologist whether a cardiac MRI is right for you, or request a referral.

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