NMR spectroscopic assessment of altered myocardial lipid metabolism.

Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy of myocardial lipids can be used to monitor the metabolic activity of the heart. Alterations in lipid NMR signals occur with disorders such as myocardial ischemic events and postischemic dysfunction ("stunned myocardium"). Proton NMR-derived information may prove useful in evaluating the extent and stage of the ischemic injury and viability of the myocardium.