Abstract
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is increasingly accepted for the assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD). Pharmacological stress testing can be performed as first-pass myocardial perfusion MRI after injection of adenosine i.v. The protocol allows visualisation of LV function, myocardial perfusion and viability within a single examination. CMR respresents the gold standard concerning LV function and myocardial viability. CMR results are promising concerning myocardial first-pass perfusion imaging. Myocardial scintigraphy with technetium-99m sestamibi performed as a first-pass perfusion study applying adenosine i.v. or during bicycle ergometry represents an alternative modality. When comparing both methods advantages, disadvantages, as well as complementary aspects should be mentioned. CMR does not involve x-ray radiation and may be preferred to scintigraphy in some patients. First-pass myocardial perfusion MRI is now an officially recognized method according to the recently published "Nationale Versorgungs-Leitlinie Chronische KHK" [2] in Germany. Taking into account published data, CMR is suitable for patients with an intermediate risk for CAD.
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