Overview

This four-hour course focuses on the application of MR technologies to clinical problem solving. It will clarify the rapidly evolving MR techniques applicable to the many demanding questions posed by clinicians treating disorders of the heart and blood vessels.  Specific issues addressed include the renewed  interest in non-contrast MRA applications against a background of almost universal acceptance of contrast-enhanced techniques;  the possibility for comprehensive evaluation of the heart and pulmonary vasculature in patients with pulmonary hypertension;  resurgence of the issues of increased speed to eliminate venous enhancement in peripheral MRA in the face of recent introduction of “blood-pool” contrast agents (in Europe);  and assessment of acute and chronic coronary syndromes; and evaluation of non-ischemic heart disease.

Educational Objectives                                                                       

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
•  Clarify the current status of the many competing cutting-edge MR technologies for evaluation of the heart and blood vessels;
•  Describe a comprehensive MR protocol for evaluation of patients with pulmonary hypertension;
•  Demonstrate a robust protocol for evaluation of coronary ischaemia, and present a tailored easily Implemented method
  for determination of myocardial viability and function;
•  Compare the currently available contrast agents for first-pass imaging and describe similarities and differences between these
  agents and blood pool agents; and
•  Appraise the potential role of current and future developments in pulse-sequences, hardware and contrast agents that will
  address some of the existing limitations.

Audience Description

This course is designed for attendees who want to improve their understanding of CV diagnosis, and will be of interest to technologists, basic scientists, radiologists and cardiologists.  A basic understanding of disease processes or MR technology or both would be helpful, although the course is also suitable for those with little prior experience of CV MRI as a primer.   Most attendees will likely have some experience of either direct patient care, execution of CV protocols within the MR environment and some knowledge of the direction of CV research.