Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging After Presentation With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) imaging is an advanced diagnostic imaging tool offering precise visualization of myocardial structure, function, and viability post-myocardial infarction (MI). This chapter explores the evolution of CMR techniques, emphasizing their diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications. It details standard CMR protocols, including cine and delayed-enhancement imaging, which provide unmatched accuracy in identifying infarct size, transmural extent, and complications such as thrombus or ventricular aneurysms. Highlighted are its applications in differentiating ischemic from non-ischemic injuries, evaluating unrecognized MIs, and predicting left ventricular recovery post-revascularization. CMR’s capability to quantify infarct size with high sensitivity makes it a preferred modality in clinical trials for assessing therapeutic interventions. By integrating structural and functional imaging, CMR aids in nuanced clinical decision-making, underscoring its pivotal role in modern cardiovascular care.
