MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging uses large magnets and radio waves to make pictures of your body's internal organs. You’re not exposed to X-rays. This can also make images of your heart’s pumping cycle. Your doctor uses MRIs to see how well different organs work, like your heart, lungs, major blood vessels, and pericardium (that’s the outside lining of your heart).

Since the MRI uses magnets, make sure to tell the staff if you have any implants made of metal or any of it under your skin. Some metallic implants, like sternal wires and clips used for heart surgery, don’t cause any issues.