[Variability in the MR tomographic determination of myocardial function and perfusion parameters in health subjects].

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate myocardial function and perfusion patterns using magnetic resonance imaging in normal subjects.
Materials and Methods: 22 healthy volunteers were examined. Cine-mode acquisitions along all three axes of the heart were generated and perfusion was measured on a mid-ventricular short-axis view. Myocardial wall thickening was scored and contrast enhancement during the first pass was analysed.
Results: For myocardial wall thickening increasing values from base (24-86%) to apex (63-106%) were found. Contrast enhancement patterns showed regional variability. In addition marked individual differences were detectable.
Conclusion: Perfusion patterns should be interpreted only in combination with functional parameters. Standard values for perfusion measurements cover very large range as a result of the high individual variability.