Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can visualize and characterize the structure and function of the heart. Unlike computed tomography which uses x-ray imaging, MR images are generated by a strong magnetic field, avoiding any ionizing radiation burden for patients. The working group for Cardiovascular MRI at the Department of Cardiology and Angiology performs around 400 MRI examinations per year in cooperation with the Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology. A state-of-the-art 1.5 Tesla MRT device from Siemens (Avanto) is used for all imagining procedures, which allows the generation of two-dimensional still images, one-dimensional moving images as well as 3D reconstructions.

One of our core clinical specialities lies in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with coronary heart disease, primarily via perfusion and vitality assessments using adenosine or gadolinium contrast medium. We focus on the identification and differentiation of different forms of cardiomyopathies, and the diagnosis of acute cardiac inflammation. Working closely with the Outpatient Clinic for Adult Congenital Heart Disease, our unit also carries out regular check-ups of patients with congenital heart defects.