Cardiac MRI problem

[YITOPM]

Hi. After having had angina symptoms for months, I was waiting for 4 months for a cardiac MRI. That was my hope.

That almost happened yesterday. Turns out (as I am obese - I’d prefer to be called fat frankly) that I’m 28” wide and could only just fit in the scanner tube BUT not within safety requirements for the radiologist. So it was cancelled. I was completely gutted.

Anyone know if there are any other alternatives to a wide bore scanner for a cardiac MRI ? Thanks for any helpful comments.

[Lowerfield_no_more]

It is unfortunate that you were unable to undergo your planned cardio MRI for the reasons you have given. Whilst it does not offer an answer to your question concerning wide bore scanners, I really do suggest that you try to lose some weight through diet and modest exercise, unless there is a genuine medical reason for your body mass. The health benefits arising will be certain, and your feeling of well being will improve,and it is possible that due to you removing some of the stress your heart is currently facing due to your weight, you may lose some of the symptoms of angina. And one further benefit may be that you are able to use standard scanners within the safe working limits. I hope you get sorted,

[devonian186 in reply to Lowerfield_no_more]

The heart has a huge extra strain on it due to excess weight. Its not a perfect science but aiming for a BMI of 25 would help all aspects of your life.

Similarly its useful to check out your real waist size-not your trouser waist size-as anything over 38inches is likely to mean fat is pressing on vital organs.

[scentedgardener]

I have read that there are open MRI scanners, but whether they are available on the NHS I don't know.

[YITOPM in reply to scentedgardener]

Thank you for replying to the actual question I posted. Appreciated.

[Doggyday]

Hi there,I was diagnosed with angina about same time as you,am waiting on a test where I am wired up and have to go on a treadmill then injected with dye and same procedure again,sorry I've forgotten what it's called as it seems so long since they told me!!