Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, often called CMR, can combine anatomy, ventricular function, tissue characterization and stress-perfusion information in one examination. DHZC and Charité publish dedicated cardiac-MRI services for specialist cardiovascular questions.
What cardiac MRI can add
DHZC describes cardiac MRI as particularly useful for ischemia assessment, cardiomyopathies and congenital heart disease. Tissue characterization can help distinguish different causes of myocardial injury or disease.
Stress MRI is a functional test
For suspected chronic coronary disease, stress-perfusion CMR can assess whether myocardial blood supply becomes inadequate under pharmacological stress. The 2024 ESC chronic-coronary-syndrome guidance includes stress CMR among functional imaging options in appropriate patients.
Records to prepare
A cardiac imaging service can plan the study more efficiently when previous results are available.
- Current cardiology summary and symptoms
- ECG and echocardiography
- Prior coronary CT or angiography if performed
- Previous cardiac MRI images and report
- Renal function when contrast may be needed
- Implant/device information for MRI safety
- Relevant operative or catheter-intervention reports
MRI safety must be checked before travel
Pacemakers, ICDs, implanted devices, metallic foreign bodies and severe kidney impairment can change how the examination is performed or whether contrast is appropriate. Send exact device details rather than assuming MRI compatibility.
Ask whether CMR or another test best answers the question
Depending on symptoms and pre-test likelihood, coronary CT, stress imaging or invasive angiography may be more appropriate. The choice of test should follow the clinical question, not scanner availability alone.
Official sources
Sources last checked 2026-08-29. Diagnostic indications and preparation requirements can change, so confirm current instructions with the imaging center before travelling.