Introduction and Context
Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is now an essential modality for evaluating a broad range of cardiovascular conditions. The 2026 consensus document by Moharem-Elgamal and colleagues (European Heart Journal, 2026) was written to help general cardiologists incorporate CMR into routine practice. It distils expert recommendations on when to order CMR, which sequences to use, how to interpret key findings, and how to manage common practical issues — including scanning patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs).
Why this consensus matters now
– Rapid advances in CMR technology — especially T1/T2 parametric mapping, quantitative late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), and faster 3D acquisitions — have increased diagnostic and prognostic power.
– Expanding clinical evidence shows that CMR-guided diagnosis changes management for myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), myocarditis, cardiomyopathies, and valve disease.
– Increasing numbers of patients have CIEDs yet often still need CMR. Implementation guidance and safety protocols are now mature enough to broaden access.
