Cardiovascular MR imaging: technique optimization and detection of disease in clinical practice

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has emerged as an important and growing means of cardiovascular imaging, with many advantages over other radiologic modalities, including excellent spatial and temporal resolution, lack of ionizing radiation, and noninvasiveness. In this article, the utility of MR imaging in cardiovascular imaging and in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease will be discussed. MR techniques for evaluating the heart and vasculature will be described, and troubleshooting techniques will be presented. Imaging findings in congenital anomalies such as septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, transposition of the great arteries, and tetralogy of Fallot will be identified. Valvular lesions and methods for evaluating valvular function will be discussed. MR imaging findings in acquired disorders such as aneurysms and pericardial disease will be described.