Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy in the study of cardiovascular disease

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques are now being applied to clinical medicine. Magnetic resonance imaging has particular advantages in evaluating cardiovascular disease: it is noninvasive; it can estimate blood flow velocity; it does not require contrast medium; and it can image in several planes. The major current limitations are resolution and cost. There are also patient-specific limitations involving implanted metal, pacemakers, metallic life support systems, and involuntary motion. NMR spectroscopy allows on-line analysis of important biochemical processes. 31P spectroscopy allows analysis of high-energy phosphate metabolism and is being used to study the effects of and recovery from ischemic cell injury. 13C can be used to monitor metabolism of carbon-containing compounds. The applications of these techniques are rapidly evolving.