Evaluation of left ventricular structure and function by three-dimensional echocardiography

Abstract

Purpose of review: To summarize research on the use of 3-dimensional (3D) echocardiography for quantifying left ventricular (LV) volumes, ejection fraction, and mass, and to describe emerging applications of the technology.

Recent findings: Several publications have provided reference values for LV volumes and ejection fraction by 3D transthoracic echocardiography (3DTTE) in normal patients.

Summary: With real-time 3DTTE, one can acquire and display a 3D image encompassing the entire LV within seconds. Because 3DTTE aids in identification of the true LV apex, it provides more accurate LV volumes than its 2D counterpart. As compared with a cardiovascular magnetic resonance standard, 3DTTE tends to slightly underestimate LV volumes, in part because its spatial resolution is limited, making identification of the true endocardial border more difficult. As compared with 2DTTE, 3DTTE is advantageous for identifying and assessing the extent of regional wall motion abnormalities. For quantification of LV mass, 3DTTE is superior to both 2DTTE and M-mode echocardiography. Emerging applications of 3DTTE include speckle-tracking strain assessment, dyssynchrony analysis, and LV shape analysis, which appear to have prognostic value in patients with a variety of cardiac conditions.