When to order cardiovascular magnetic resonance in adults with congenital heart disease.

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), where available, contributes to the informed management of patients with congenital heart disease. In contrast to echocardiography, CMR becomes easier as patients grow. It is versatile and gives unrestricted access to the heart and intrathoracic vessels, providing functional and structural information. Its relative strengths are discussed, and examples are given of congenital conditions in which it provides clinically important information. CMR can prevent the need for diagnostic catheterization or expedite intervention if indicated, enabling planned, directed procedures. In our practice, CMR is used for serial follow-up, investigation of altered symptoms or signs, planning of transcatheter or surgical interventions, and for baseline assessment after surgery. As CMR becomes more widely available, it will contribute increasingly to the lifelong management of patients with congenital heart disease.