Cardiovascular magnetic resonance: current clinical practice and future potential

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is playing an increasing role in the noninvasive assessment of the cardiothoracic patient. It provides rapid, high-resolution anatomical coverage, and accurate functional cardiovascular assessment without the need for ionizing radiation. In this article, we discuss the fundamental principles of CMR and outline the established and newer indications for its use. Finally, the future potential for this technique in the cardiovascular arena is briefly outlined.