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Cardiac MRI technologists face a critical challenge when performing late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and early gadolinium enhancement (EGE) imaging: selecting the appropriate inversion time (TI) for phase-sensitive inversion recovery (PSIR) sequences. The TI time directly affects image quality and diagnostic accuracy, especially when identifying myocardial scar or fibrosis. This post explains how to choose the right TI time for PSIR imaging, clarifies the differences between

Phase contrast imaging is a powerful tool in cardiac MRI that provides unique insights into blood flow and velocity within the heart and vessels. For cardiac MRI technologists, mastering this technique can significantly enhance the diagnostic value of scans and improve patient outcomes. This post explores what phase contrast imaging is, why it stands apart from other sequences like cine imaging or mapping, when to use it, and the best anatomical locations for acquiring these

Cardiac MRI is a powerful tool that provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. Yet, if you work as a cardiac MRI technologist, you’ve likely noticed that the sequences used in one scan can differ significantly from those in another. Why do some sequences take priority over others? Why do protocols vary between patients or institutions? Understanding these differences is key to performing effective scans and delivering accurate diagnostic information. This

Cardiac MRI is a powerful, non-invasive imaging tool that provides detailed, high resolution pictures of the heart's structure, function, and tissue characteristics. As one of the most sophisticated imaging modalities in cardiovascular medicine, it has become the gold standard for assessing ventricular function, myocardial viability, and detecting a wide range of cardiac pathologies. For new MRI technologists stepping into the specialized field of cardiac imaging, the transit

Aortic Valve Closed aortic valve during diastole True FISP. Open aortic valve during systole True FISP. Short axis view of the aortic valve True FISP sequence, notice artifact over valve. Short axis view of the aortic valve GRE sequence same slice location. GRE vs True FISP: Sequence Selection and Artifact Considerations Choosing the appropriate imaging sequence is critical when evaluating the aortic valve. The comparison between Gradient Recalled Echo (GRE) and True Fast Ima

Cardiac MRI has become a vital tool for diagnosing and managing heart diseases. Among the various imaging techniques, MOLLI (Modified Look-Locker Inversion recovery) mapping stands out for its ability to provide detailed tissue characterization. But why do cardiac MRI technologists run MOLLI maps, and when might these maps not be needed? This post explores the purpose of MOLLI maps, their clinical value, and situations where skipping them makes sense. Cardiac MRI scanner show

Cardiac MRI has become an essential tool in diagnosing and managing heart diseases. Its ability to provide detailed images of the heart’s structure and function makes it invaluable for detecting a wide range of cardiac pathologies. However, understanding and interpreting cardiac MRI requires access to reliable resources that explain the pathology clearly and comprehensively. This post guides you through the key resources that help medical professionals, students, and research

Cardiac MRI Scan Protocol Optimization: Expert Tips Cardiac MRI machine setup showing patient table and coil positioning Understand the Clinical Question Before setting up the scan, clarify the clinical question. Different cardiac conditions require different imaging sequences and parameters. For example: Ischemic heart disease : Focus on myocardial perfusion and viability using stress and delayed enhancement imaging. Cardiomyopathies : Use tissue characterization sequences l