Exercise Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (ExCMR)

Cardiac MRI (CMR) is an advanced non-invasive heart scan that creates detailed images of the heart and related blood vessels for diagnostic purposes. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, it does not involve radiation. 

An ExCMR combines MRI with real-time exercise on a specially designed stationary bicycle attached to the scanner. It captures detailed images of the heart in action, showing how it pumps and adapts under physical stress while you are pedaling.

Who is suitable for ExCMR? 

ExCMR can help diagnose various heart conditions such as cardiomyopathy and coronary artery disease. It is particularly useful for distinguishing between athlete's heart and dilated cardiomyopathy. 

Active individuals can be referred for ExCMR through their cardiologist from both public and private healthcare institutions. You should speak to your cardiologist about whether ExCMR is appropriate for your condition.

Preparing for your ExCMR scan

Kindly inform our staff prior to the examination appointment if you may be pregnant or have the following:  

• A pacemaker or neuro-stimulator
• Metallic implants in your body
• Any previous operation performed
• An eye injury involving metallic foreign body
• Any previous allergic reaction to MRI contrast agent
• Fear of confined spaces (claustrophobic)

You can consume food, drinks and take your medications as per normal, unless advised otherwise. Please do not carry expensive valuables with you on the day of your appointment.

Please do not wear any makeup (e.g. mascara) or use hairspray on your appointment day. 

For some cases, your doctor may request for an MRI contrast agent injection to highlight your blood vessels. You may need to proceed with a blood test (3 months’ validity) prior to your examination. 

Please bring along your scan request form and any previous scanned images (not performed at SGH or NHCS) on the day of your appointment. 

You may bring along a CD of your choice to be played during the examination.

What to expect on the day of your scan? 

Registration

Please report to the respective appointment counter at least 15 minutes before your appointment time for registration. Please be punctual to avoid any rescheduling of your appointment. There may be slight waiting time on the day of the examination if any unforeseen circumstances arise.

Please present your original request form during registration and make payment either by cash, NETS or other major credit cards. You may use up to S$300 of your Medisave savings a year to pay for the outpatient scan (non-cancer-related conditions).

Before scan

The pre-test examination would take a minimum of one hour, depending on your heart condition and doctor’s request. 

You will be asked to change into an examination gown and keep all your personal items in a locker. 

Your parameters such as height, weight, blood pressure and heart rate will be taken. 

A small cannula will be inserted into the vein of your arm or hand if contrast agent is required. 

You will be advised to empty your bladder just before your scan.

During scan

An ExCMR scan takes about an hour. During the test, a specialised stationary bicycle is set up inside the MRI scanner. You will first undergo a standard resting MRI scan, then cycle at set intervals while the scanner captures detailed images of your heart's structure, function, and blood flow during exercise.

Do not be alarmed when you hear loud thumping noises from the machine. Earplugs and headphones will be provided for your comfort.

You will be constantly monitored through a CCTV and the radiographer will communicate with you during the scan.

During the resting MRI scan, you will be asked to hold your breath for 10 to 15 seconds for each imaging sequence. The exercise scans are performed with free breathing.

After scan 

You may resume your normal activities. If you were given instructions to fast for the examination, you may resume your normal diet. 

Your examination report will be available on your next clinic appointment. 

Our Locations 

Level 4, 4A: Please proceed to 4A Cardiac Imaging Lab reception, which is accessible by the lift or escalator.