Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, highlighting the need for precise, non-invasive diagnostic tools. Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) imaging has become the reference standard for detailed evaluation of cardiac morphology, function, and tissue characteristics. However, traditional CMR and other imaging methods often struggle to capture the full complexity of intracardiac blood flow and the dynamic nature of cardiac motion.

The emergence of 4D flow MRI, a state-of-the-art CMR technique, has created new possibilities for visualizing and quantifying multidirectional blood flow in three-dimensional space over time. This approach offers unprecedented visualization of flow patterns, wall shear stress, and intracardiac hemodynamics, providing critical insights into the pathophysiology of a wide range of CVDs - including, but not limited to, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), valvular heart disease, congenital anomalies, and heart failure.

Recent studies suggest that 4D flow MRI can identify abnormal flow dynamics, detect subtle or early disease processes, and aid in risk stratification and treatment planning. By directly visualizing flow abnormalities and quantifying novel hemodynamic markers, 4D flow MRI has the potential to enhance diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and evaluate responses to therapy. Despite remarkable progress, challenges remain in standardizing acquisition protocols, quantification methods, and integration into routine clinical practice.

This Research Topic aims to explore the evolving role of CMR and 4D flow MRI in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of cardiovascular diseases. It seeks to bring together experts across cardiology, radiology, and biomedical engineering to advance discussion, innovation, and consensus on the optimal use of these powerful imaging modalities.

The primary objectives are to:

• Evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of CMR and 4D flow MRI in various cardiovascular diseases.
• Compare these advanced techniques with traditional imaging methods.
• Develop and standardize protocols for clinical workflow.
• Explore technological advancements, AI integration, accessibility, and health economics related to 4D flow MRI.

We welcome submissions addressing, but not limited to, the following areas:

• Comparative studies between conventional imaging methods (e.g., echocardiography, 2D/phase-contrast MRI) and 4D flow MRI for diverse CVDs
• Applications of 4D flow MRI in early detection, risk stratification, and treatment planning for diseases such as HCM, cardiomyopathies, valve disease, and congenital heart disease
• Development, validation, and standardization of acquisition and quantification protocols for 4D flow MRI in clinical settings
• AI and automated workflow tools to enhance the reproducibility and utility of 4D flow MRI
• Health economics, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility studies regarding the adoption of 4D flow MRI
• Technological advances and future directions for CMR and 4D flow imaging
• Case reports or illustrative case series demonstrating unique or clinically significant findings

We welcome Original Research, Reviews, and Case Reports that address these or related topics, fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange. By focusing on cutting-edge CMR and 4D flow MRI, this Research Topic aims to accelerate the integration of advanced imaging into clinical cardiology, paving the way for more precise, dynamic, and patient-centered care for individuals with cardiovascular disease.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Advancing Cardiovascular Disease Assessment: The Role of CMR and 4D Flow MRI