Albert De Roos MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

1) To learn appropriate indications for the use of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. 2) To appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of cardiac MRI in relation to other cardiovascular imaging modalities. 3) To define the relative and absolute contraindications in selecting patients for cardiac MRI. 4) To know the spectrum of clinical information available from cardiac MRI. 5) To learn the basic pulse sequences and MRI protocols most commonly used in cardiac MRI.

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is a noninvasive imaging modality most commonly available in tertiary referral centers. In general, it is a secondary, rather than primary test. However, in many appropriately referred patients, echocardiography, computed tomography, nuclear scintigraphy and/or invasive angiography are insufficient for definitive diagnosis. Additionally, in certain clinical situations primary referral for CMR is preferable due to unique capabilities or institutional preferences and/or expertise. The evaluation of cardiomyopathies is a frequent use of CMR; in particular to differentiate ischemic, infiltrative, restrictive, inflammatory, hypertrophic and idiopathic myopathies. This is due to its unique capacity for tissue characterization using first pass and delayed contrast enhancement and T1 and T2 sensitive pulse sequences. Another use is in pre- and post-operative evaluation of congenital heart disease, in which the ability to provide anatomic, functional and vascular information from the entire thorax is unique, and particularly advantageous in young, radiation sensitive patients. Another frequent indication is analysis of suspected intracardiac or pericardial masses, which also benefits from the anatomic flexibility and tissue characterization capabilities of this modality.

De Roos, A, Clinical Indications, Methods and Interpretation of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/13010472.html