MR (magnetic resonance) imaging is a non-invasive procedure that has revolutionised the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions. But its application for the heart is still evolving.

A unique challenge for researchers using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is in studying a moving organ. Such research requires specialised hardware (‘coils') and complex software that is unique to the heart.

With the support of the North Shore Heart Research Foundation, Dr Gemma Figtree and others have set up an internationally recognised CMR unit at Royal North Shore Hospital. 

Purpose

The facility is to be used for cardiac research and other clinical purposes. It brings together expert physicians and scientists to develop the potential of CMR for both research and clinical cardiology.

The long-term goals are to:

• streamline the diagnostic process, obtaining the necessary information for each patient in one test
• minimise the risk to patients from radiation and invasive procedures
• maximise accurate information about conditions such as heart attack and coronary artery disease
• develop novel methods of diagnosis, assessment and treatment
• contribute to advances in CMR.

Progress to date

The first six months focused on establishing the facility and gathering a team with international experience in driving CMR research. The coil and software are installed, and the first cardiac scan was done in October 2008. 

The team includes cardiologists, radiologists and scientists from the University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, North Shore Private Hospital, St Vincent's Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. They are now able to contribute at an international level to the development of MR for heart research and clinical uses.