MR imaging in congenital heart disease: where is the leading edge?

MRI has proved to be a useful tool in the evaluation of congenital heart disease. Two types of information can be gleaned from this new imaging modality. The first has to do with the acquisition of anatomical details which are best retrieved from "static" scanning using a low field strength. We have found magnetic resonance to be superior to angiocardiography and/or echocardiography in gathering anatomical information in the following situations: congenital heart defects having giant compartments; conotruncal malformations; and assessment of surgical results. Secondly, physiological information can be obtained using "dynamic" or cine magnetic resonance imaging, utilizing a high field strength.