The National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS) has launched Exercise Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (ExCMR) imaging, marking a first in Asia. This innovative technology combines advanced MRI with real-time exercise, allowing doctors to observe heart performance during physical activity. The ExCMR test, which uses a specially designed stationary bicycle within the MRI scanner, provides a comprehensive assessment in a single session, distinguishing between normal exercise-induced changes and serious heart conditions.
ExCMR significantly reduces the need for multiple tests, cutting down from 56.8% to just 6.5%, and offers timely diagnosis and treatment. This advancement is particularly beneficial for active individuals and athletes, as demonstrated by national footballer Adam Swandi’s case. After experiencing symptoms during a match, ExCMR confirmed his cardiomyopathy diagnosis, enabling timely intervention.
Associate Professor Calvin Chin of NHCS highlighted ExCMR as a “game-changer” for early detection of heart conditions, especially in active individuals. Previously, patients faced a series of tests to diagnose heart issues. Now, ExCMR streamlines this process, offering precise results swiftly.
Initially introduced as a research project in 2017, ExCMR has been refined through extensive studies involving over 600 participants. Since its clinical rollout in 2020, around 400 patients have benefited. NHCS plans to expand ExCMR capacity to 100 patients annually and is working on making the technology more accessible.
Professor Yeo Khung Keong, CEO of NHCS, emphasised the importance of such advancements in achieving clearer diagnoses and improving patient care. NHCS continues to lead efforts in setting global standards for ExCMR, ensuring broader patient benefits.
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