Physician Exposes Issue with Trump's 'Ridiculous' MRI Explanation

Dr. Jonathan Reiner has expressed doubts regarding the nature of President Donald Trumps recent medical evaluations. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt informed reporters on Monday that the president underwent a preventative MRI last month to examine his heart and abdominal region.

There really is no such thing as a preventative cardiac MRI, Reiner stated on CNN News Central. This is not a standard procedure for an 80-year-old man.

Observers also noted Trumps facial drooping at a 9/11 memorial event, which raised additional concerns about his overall health. The White House had previously declined to clarify the purpose of the advanced imaging conducted during Trumps October visit to Walter Reed Military Medical Center, fueling speculation about his medical condition.

At 79, Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he would be comfortable releasing details about what he described as a perfect MRI. Reiner, who served as cardiologist for the late Vice President Dick Cheney for over 30 years, criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the presidents medical procedures, describing it as defensive and evasive.

During his first term, the president only underwent one comprehensive physical each year, so this imaging comes out of the usual schedule, Reiner said. Dr. Barbabella, the presidents physician, mentioned advanced imagingbut what exactly was performed? An MRI, a CT, or both? Why not clarify?

Reiner emphasized that preventative imaging of the abdomen is unusual. He also pointed out that the presidents swollen ankles, visible during a meeting with Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, may indicate underlying health issues.

If this imaging was prompted by a specific clinical concern, thats understandable, Reiner added. At nearly 80, these things can happen. But rather than providing vague statements, the White House should explain what occurred. The piecemeal release of information is concerning.

The cardiologist also discussed Trumps diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency in July, noting that while generally benign, the condition could have broader cardiovascular implications. MRI can be used to evaluate the heart for stiffness or infiltrative disease. If that was the purpose, its important information, Reiner said. But it doesnt align with routine preventative imaging.

Reiner noted that most doctors agree advanced imaging is not standard for executive physicals at any age. He recalled that during Trumps April medical checkup, no swelling was reported, yet by July, he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency.

Trump indicated willingness to release his MRI results on November 30, weeks after the October physical, and simultaneously highlighted his cognitive test while questioning reporters about the advanced imaging. Reiner remarked, Its difficult to call something chronic when it appears suddenly.

Despite his skepticism, Reiner believes the presidents lack of full disclosure is probably not malicious. He concluded, It would be best for the presidents doctor to answer questions directly, resolve the uncertainty, and allow everyone to move forward.

Author: Sophia Brooks