Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the chest gives detailed images of structures within the chest cavity, including the mediastinum, chest wall, pleura, heart and vessels, from almost any angle. MRI of the chest can assess abnormal masses, including cancer of the lungs or other tissues, which either cannot be assessed adequately with other imaging modalities or which are particularly well-suited to MRI.

Because there is no ionizing radiation used in an MRI exam, Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a very popular tool in the medical community. In addition, MRI is a totally painless exam and has no known side effects.

Your medical provider may recommend an MRI of the chest in order to:

• determine tumor size, extent, and the degree of spread to adjacent structures
• display lymph nodes and blood vessels, including vascular and lymphatic malformations of the chest
• assess disorders of the chest bones such as the vertebrae, ribs and sternum, and chest wall soft tissue (muscles and fat)
• assess for pericardial (the thin sac around the heart) disease
• characterize mediastinal or pleural lesions seen by other imaging modalities such as x-ray or Computed Tomography (CT).

When you arrive for your MRI of the chest, a trained technologist will review your medical history, confirm the area being examined, and answer any questions before beginning the scan. Because chest imaging often focuses on the lungs, heart, mediastinum, blood vessels, or chest wall structures, proper positioning is important to ensure detailed and accurate images.

You will lie comfortably on a padded MRI table, typically on your back. A specialized imaging coil may be placed over your chest to help capture high-resolution images of internal structures. The technologist will ensure that you are positioned correctly and comfortably before the scan begins. In some cases, you may be asked to briefly hold your breath during certain imaging sequences to reduce motion from normal breathing and improve image clarity.

Once the scan starts, the table will move into the MRI scanner. The system is open on both ends, and only the portion of your body being imaged will be centered within the magnet. During the exam, you will hear repetitive knocking, tapping, or thumping sounds. These noises are a normal part of the imaging process and occur as the magnetic fields are adjusted to obtain detailed cross-sectional images. Ear protection or headphones are typically provided to improve comfort during the procedure.

An MRI of the chest is painless and noninvasive. However, remaining still throughout the scan is essential to produce the most accurate diagnostic images. If at any time you feel uncomfortable, you will be able to communicate directly with the technologist through an intercom system. You are continuously monitored during the exam to ensure your safety and comfort.

Depending on your physician’s recommendation, contrast material may be administered through a small intravenous (IV) line. Contrast can help highlight blood vessels, inflammation, tumors, or other abnormalities within the chest cavity. If contrast is used, you may notice a temporary warm sensation or mild flushing feeling, which typically passes quickly. Most patients tolerate contrast without difficulty.

An MRI of the chest generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the study and whether contrast is required. Once the scan is complete, you can usually resume your normal activities immediately unless you have been given specific instructions. The images will then be reviewed by a radiologist who specializes in interpreting advanced imaging studies.