Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cardiac Diagnosis

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves rather than xrays to produce highly detailed images of internal organs and tissues. Because of the high contrast sensitivity to soft tissue and the safety to the patient resulting from the use of nonionizing radiation, MRI has replaced many CT methods. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of pathologic conditions in all parts of the body, including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, joint and musculoskeletal disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise. MRI is a fast, noninvasive tool for diagnosing coronary artery disease and heart problems. The technique allows visualization of cardiac anatomy, size and thickness of the chambers of the heart, myocardial motion and valvular sufficiency. MRI is the modality of choice to examine the damage caused by a heart attack or progressive heart disease. MRI is becoming very important in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease allowing measurements of coronary arterial flow and coronary flow reserve.