Practical applications of magnetic resonance in congenital heart disease.

Cardiac magnetic resonance is a powerful, rapidly advancing technology that complements other imaging modalities in the noninvasive evaluation of congenital heart disease. Magnetic resonance plays an important role in diagnosis and follow-up by assessing anatomic features, functional effects, and postoperative complications. An understanding of the pathophysiology and imaging characteristics of various congenital heart lesions is essential for effective implementation and accurate interpretation of the cardiac magnetic resonance examination.