Prof. Eike Nagel, director of the Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging at the Goethe University Frankfurt presented the key findings of the MR-INFORM study today at the American College for Cardiology Scientific Sessions in Washington, DC, US as a late breaking clinical trial. The MR-INFORM study investigated the clinical effectiveness of non-invasive magnetic resonance perfusion measurements in comparison to invasive coronary angiography supported by pressure measurements in the coronary arteries (fractional flow reserve, FFR), in patients with stable angina. The main finding is that non-invasive magnetic resonance perfusion imaging can guide patient management as safely as the currently used invasive coronary angiography supported by FFR in a population at high risk for cardiovascular events.
In an public statement to the recent recommendation of the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee of the European Medicines Agency to suspend
, the leadership of the SCMR calls for a reasonable handling of gadolinium agents. Specifically, the society says that in Cardiovascular MR (CMR) applications, contrast-enhanced protocols allow for a precise, qualitative and quantitative assessment of tissue changes and provide excellent diagnostic value.
While the SCMR also promotes caution regarding the use of gadolinium agents and the use of newer, macrocyclic compounds, the statements re-emphasizes the benefit of contrast agents for therapeutic decision-making and eventually the patient.
"A phobia against gadolinium agents or a move to other, less suitable imaging techniques", so their statement, "would have far worse consequences for the patients."
Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance. The aim of the paper was to analyze all of the ESC guidelines, to determine whether cardiovascular MR (CMR) is mentioned within the guideline and which recommendations are made concerning the use of CMR. This analysis should serve as a ground for future discussions, such as reimbursement and education.
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With multifaceted imaging capabilities, cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is playing a progressively increasing role in the management of various cardiac conditions. A global registry that harmonizes data from international centers, with participation policies that aim to be open and inclusive of all CMR programs, can support future evidence-based growth in CMR. A paper published in the JCMR provides an overview of the registry as well as its goals, rationale, data infrastructure, and current developments.
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Listen to Raymond Kwong provide an update on the registry.
