Perfusion MRI

[Myflowers2]

Has anyone been to Royal Brompton hospital in London and had a Perfusion MRI. If so wants it like and how long does it take.?

[Ppiman]

I have had two so far. It takes quite a long time, although not ages. If I recall, about an hour last time. I was told this varies as sometimes a repeat scan is needed as some people move a bit or don't hold their breaths when asked, etc. I think I was told to leave 2-3 hours free.

A simple MRI is a completely painless procedure with no radiation, so entirely safe. However, you will be in a large white tunnel, so some people feel claustrophobic. Also, if you are having, as part of the scan (and I think it very likely for AF investigation) an adenosine or similar injection to emulate exercise by speeding up your heart, that is not a pleasant experience as it causes transient breathlessness and a feeling of panic. but that is very short lived and near the end of the scan.

Steve

[Myflowers2 in reply to Ppiman]

Thank you

[Ppiman in reply to Myflowers2]

I just thought...

One issue I have found with all MRI scanning is that it can be difficult to hear the instructions as these are given through headphones. You are given these to deaden the loud "du-du-du-du-du..." sounds that occur when the scan are being taken (there will be quite a lot of these, with pauses in between).

Be sure to mention that you can hear what is being said if it is the same with you. It is only, "Breathe in and hold your breath", "Breathe normally" and similar. You'll be given a buzzer to hold and press in case you need help or feel uncomfortable. I recall getting an itchy nose and couldn't scratch it!

Steve

[Thomas45]

There is information available online from the Royal Brompton Hospital, a leaflet from them about myocardial perfusion MRIs. The actual scans don't appear to take long, but there are periods when you have to rest. Read the leaflet, and ask questions at your pre- procedure appointment.Unless someone does it before me, when I can get to a PC I could send you the reference for the leaflet.

[Myflowers2 in reply to Thomas45]

Thank you

[Thomas45]

It looked like a leaflet on my phone, but now I'm at my computer I find it's just the information. I'm assuming that you mean a Myocardial Profusion MRI. The information us at rbht.nhs.uk/our-services/my...