MRI of Myocardial Perfusion

An overwhelming number of myocardial perfusion studies are done by nuclear isotope imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging during the first pass of an injected, contrast bolus has some significant advantages for detection of blood flow deficits, namely higher spatial resolution, absence of ionizing radiation, and speed of the test. Previous clinical studies have demonstrated that excellent sensitivity and specificity can be achieved with MR myocardial perfusion imaging for detecting coronary artery disease, and assessment of patients with acute chest pain. Furthermore, an absolute quantification of myocardial blood flow is feasible, as was demonstrated by comparison of MR perfusion imaging, to measurements with isotope labeled microspheres in experimental models. An integrated assessment of perfusion, function, and viability, is thus feasible by MRI to answer important clinical challenges such as the identification of stunned or hibernating, but viable myocardium.