[The visualization of heart wall motion using MR-interferography]

MR interferography provides a method for noninvasive measurement of heart wall motion. An interferographic pattern is projected on short axis views of the left ventricle, characterising local motion of the myocardium. In contrast to tagging methods, interferography images the direction and velocity of local wall motion at the moment of acquisition directly. Ten healthy volunteers and 8 patients with myocardial infarction were studied. Contraction, relaxation velocity of the ventricular wall, and rotation (twist) of the left ventricle were recorded. Myocardial scars were identified by abnormal pattern of segmental wall motion. MR interferography represents a promising tool for assessment of the transmural distribution of thickening and of other components of motion within the wall.