Cardiac MRI: A General Overview with Emphasis on Current Use and Indications

Abstract

Cardiac magnetic resonance is well-established as a robust modality of cardiovascular imaging, providing superior resolution, infinite imaging planes, and the ability to obtain multiple types of information without ionizing radiation. Limitations imposed by availability, cost effectiveness, and safety prevent universal application. Many general and specialty practitioners do not have routine exposure to Cardiac MRI (CMR). Guidelines for the use of CMR exist, but continue to adapt to advances in techniques and ongoing research. Understanding the basics of CMR acquisition techniques, categories of appropriate use, and pertinent safety information will assist with selecting the best clinical scenarios to consider CMR.

Keywords: Cardiac MRI (CMR); Cardiomyopathy, nonischemic; Intracardiac masses; Ischemic heart disease; MRI.