Oblique Views in Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Heart by Combined Axial Rotations

Magnetic resonance imaging of the heart, and more specifically of the left ventricle (LV), is optimized by using oblique imaging planes adapted to the long and short axes of the LV, comparable to other imaging modalities in cardiology. We report a procedure to perform two chamber views, four chamber views and true short axis views by combinations of electronic axial rotations. The technique of selecting appropriate gradient angles is explained. Thus, there is no requirement for altering patient position in the imager, while individual anatomic variations are taken into account.