Protocols and Indications for Magnetic Resonance (Stress) First-Pass Perfusion Imaging of the Myocardium

Abstract

First-pass perfusion imaging with MRI under pharmacologically induced stress for the detection of myocardial ischemia has gained a lot of interest over the past years. With adenosine as the main pharmacological ‘stressor’. Issues regarding the best contrast dose and injection speed have become clear. Several perfusion sequences have been studied over the past. Even some large multi-centre trail results have been published. Some issues are still extensively research, like interpretation strategies and patient population in regard to protocols. This review highlights the technique of adenosine perfusion MRI and other perfusion techniques. The short history and current important literature are reviewed. Furthermore building blocks for different stress perfusion examinations are discussed.