Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography: technological gadget or clinical tool?
Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography: technological gadget or clinical tool?
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DOI：
10.2459/jcm.0b013e3280116b50
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发表时间：
2007-03-01
影响因子：
3
通讯作者：
Fioretti, Paolo M.
中科院分区：
文献类型：
--
作者：
Badano, Luigi P.;Dall'Armellina, Erica;Fioretti, Paolo M.
The complex anatomy of cardiac structures requires three-dimensional spatial orientation of images for a better understanding of structure and function, thereby improving image interpretation. Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography is a recently developed technique based on the design of an ultrasound transducer with a matrix array that rapidly acquires image data in a pyramidal volume. The simultaneous display of multiple tomographic images allows three-dimensional perspective and the anatomically correct examination of any structure within the volumetric image. As a consequence, it is less operator-dependent and hence more reproducible. Dedicated software systems and technologies are based on high-performance computers designed for graphic handling of three-dimensional images by providing possibilities beyond those obtainable with echocardiography. This methodology allows simultaneous display of multiple superimposed planes in an interactive manner as well as a quantitative assessment of cardiac volumes and ventricular mass in a three-dimensional format without a pre-established assumption of cardiac chamber geometry. In addition, myocardial contraction and/or perfusion abnormalities are clearly identified. Finally, real-time three-dimensional colour Doppler flow mapping enables complete visualisation of the regurgitant jet and new ways of assessing regurgitant lesion severity. Thus, this technique expands the abilities of non-invasive cardiology and may open new doors for the evaluation of cardiac diseases. In this article, current and future clinical applications of real-time three-dimensional echocardiography are reviewed.
