About a chest MRI scan
A chest MRI uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to make detailed pictures of the structures inside the chest, without X-rays. It shows soft tissues particularly well, including the chest wall muscles and bones, the mediastinum (the central part of the chest between the lungs, containing the heart, major blood vessels, windpipe and lymph nodes), and the pleura (the lining around the lungs).
A chest MRI is often requested to look more closely at a lump or abnormality found on a chest X-ray or CT scan, to see how far a known tumour extends into nearby tissues, or to look at the chest wall. It is less useful for looking at the lungs themselves, because air in the lungs gives very little signal on MRI; a CT scan is usually the preferred test for lung problems.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back on the scanner bed with a coil placed over your chest. The scanner is loud, so you will wear ear plugs or headphones, and the radiographer can talk to you throughout. Because the chest moves as you breathe and as your heart beats, you will be asked to hold your breath for short periods, and some pictures may be timed with your heartbeat using small sticky pads on your chest. Some chest scans include an injection of contrast dye (gadolinium); where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
What the scan can show
A chest MRI can help to look at:
- lumps and masses in the chest that cannot be fully assessed on CT
- the size of a tumour and whether it has spread into nearby structures
- the mediastinum, including the thymus gland and lymph nodes
- the pleura (the lining around the lungs)
- the bones and soft tissues of the chest wall
- blood vessels in the chest, including malformations
- the heart and the sac around it (pericardium)
For the lungs themselves, a CT scan is usually more useful than MRI. Your doctor will advise which test is best for you.
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is usually needed. If you have had a previous chest X-ray or CT scan, upload the report when you book so the radiologist can compare the findings.
You can usually eat, drink and take your normal medicines unless the scanning centre tells you otherwise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips or buttons, and leave jewellery at home. You will be asked to remove metal items such as hair clips, hearing aids, coins and keys, and you may be asked to change into a gown.
Before the scan you will complete a safety questionnaire. Tell the team if you have a pacemaker, any metal implant, surgical clips or other device, if you have kidney problems or allergies, or if you are, or might be, pregnant or breastfeeding. If you feel anxious in enclosed spaces, let us know when you book. Some centres can offer a relaxant, and if you take one you will need someone to take you home and must not drive for 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is an MRI or a CT scan better for the chest?
It depends on what is being looked at. CT is usually best for the lungs. MRI is better for some soft tissues, such as the chest wall, the central chest and some lumps, and it does not use radiation.
Will I need to hold my breath?
Yes, for short periods. Holding your breath stops your chest moving, so the pictures are sharp. The radiographer will tell you when to breathe in, out and hold.
Will I need a contrast injection?
Sometimes. It depends on what your doctor is looking for. Contrast helps show some lumps and blood vessels more clearly. If it is needed, it is charged separately.
Do I need a referral?
You can tell us if you have a referral from your GP, physiotherapist or consultant and upload it when you book. If you do not have one, select “no referral” when you book and the scanning centre will confirm the next steps with you.
Sources
The information on this page has been gathered from various sources and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice. TOP MRI is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of this information. Please speak to your doctor or the scanning centre about your own situation.