Quantitation of global and regional left ventricular function by MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides several imaging strategies for assessing left ventricular function. As a three-dimensional imaging technique, all measurements can be performed without relying on geometrical assumptions. Global and regional function parameters can be derived from conventional or breath-hold cine MR imaging techniques. Velocity encoded cine MR imaging techniques can be applied during the same acquisition to provide quantitative information on flow velocity and volume in the heart and the greater arteries. Quantitative image analysis based on manual tracing of contours is a time consuming procedure and therefore not practical in routine clinical practice. This chapter describes the developments towards automated image analysis and contour detection techniques for cardiovascular MR imaging.