Cardiovascular MR imaging has become a robust, clinically useful mod- ity, and the rapid pace of innovation and important information it conveys have attracted many students whose goal is to become adept practitioners. In turn, many excellent textbooks have been written to aid this process. These books are necessary and useful in helping the student learn the underlying pulse sequences used in CMR, as well as the imaging findings in a variety of disorders. However, one of the difficulties inherent in learning CMR from a book is that the printed format is not the ideal medium to d- play the dynamic imaging that comprises a typical CMR case. For instance, it may be difficult to perceive focal areas of wall motion abnormality on serial static pictures, but these abnormalities are often easily seen on cine loops. One might say that trying to learn CMR solely from a standard textbook with illustrations is like trying to learn to drive by looking at snapshots obtained through the windshield of a moving car. The learner needs to see the cardiac motion and decide if it is normal or abnormal; he or she needs to be in the driver’s seat. An additional limitation of the ava- able textbooks on CMR is that while they often have superb illustrations of abnormal findings, these images have been preselected.
In the early 20th century, plain film radiography probably evoked the same sense of wonder that we now associate with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Extensive technical developments and a growth of studies in the literature have increased demand for CMR, but the availability of competing tests and the lack of training opportunities have been limiting. The complexity of CMR examinations and the lack of standardization in protocols between centers likely also hinder its widespread adoption.
Cardiovascular MRI in Practice has been written to tackle these issues. This text resource outlines the systematic approach to CMR interpretation. The depiction of a "core exam" and the modifications used for a variety of patient circumstances are demonstrated using simple visual assessment of the images. Special emphasis on the advantages of CMR relative to other modalities reinforces practical learning objectives, organized so that the reader starts with patient images – as one would in a clinical scenario – and works back to the didactic material.
This text reference is designed for all cardiologists and cardiovascular radiologists. It is also highly relevant for those in training in order to work through and practice reporting cases using this modality.
