Frontiers in cardiovascular magnetic resonance

Cardiovascular MR encompasses a variety of different techniques that provide a comprehensive evaluation of the range of cardiovascular disorders. Atherothrombosis throughout the vascular system can be directly imaged, quantified, and characterized according to plaque components. By providing information about vascular blood flow concurrent with vascular anatomy, the functional significance of stenotic lesions can be determined. The morphology and function of the cardiac system can be viewed in exquisite detail that rivals any other imaging modality. Pathophysiological processes such as MI and ischemia, stunning and hibernation, and scarring and fibrosis can be identified easily using quick and simple protocols. Published studies, however, describe a variety of different pulse sequences and protocols for similar imaging purposes and consist of relatively small numbers of patients. The goals of future investigation will be to refine the technology, establish standard protocols for image acquisition and interpretation, address the issue of cost-effectiveness, and validate a range of clinical applications in large-scale clinical trials. © 2005 American Heart Association Inc.