Rapid Cardiac MRI Protocols: Feasibility and Potential Applications

Purpose of the Review This article provides a review of how rapid Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) has been used successfully in different clinical settings, outlining the current role of CMR and the unique, incremental information provided in the care of the patient. The article will provide a review of the abbreviated protocols used, future developments and ways to optimize these protocols. A major emphasis of the application of this technology is in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) where Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of morbidity and mortality, however the principles and protocols can be applied across a broad array of clinical platforms. Recent Findings By using a truncated protocol for CMR, most scans can be performed in under 30 minutes, with an average time of 18 minutes for scans which evaluates function and fibrosis (contrast study). A study can be performed within 8 minutes for the assessment of cardiac iron overload (non-contrast study). Rapid CMR can alter clinical management in up to 56% of patients. Rapid CMR protocols do not need state-of-the-art equipment or software. These protocols can be implemented in many centers around the world with appropriate exposure and training. Summary CMR can be performed rapidly without compromising the diagnostic yield of the technique. Rapid CMR can reduce the costs of performing CMR, increase throughput through the scanner and potentially increase the use of the modality in centers worldwide. This could lead to the improvement of clinical care through superior diagnostics and better targeting of therapy.