Cardiac function and strain analysis at 7T in comparison to 3T

Motivation: To investigate whether a single set of shim values can provide reliable image quality for cardiac MRI at 7T. Goal(s): To establish an efficient workflow for cardiac cine imaging at 7T. Approach: Short-axis and long-axis views were acquired in five subjects with different spatial resolution at 3T and 7T. Volumetric parameters and peak global longitudinal and circumferential strain were assessed for left and right ventricle. Results: No significant differences of volume parameters, field strength or spatial resolution were found. A single B1 shim set for the whole examination providing reliable image quality and quantification results constitute an essential step towards clinical cardiac imaging. Impact: An efficient workflow and reliable image quality of cine images for the assessment of cardiac volumes and strain at 7 Tesla could be realized with results in close agreement to 3T – an essential step towards clinical routine cardiac examinations.