Comparing Methods for Measuring Heart Volume
Author Information
Author(s): Helene Childs, Ma Lucia, Ma Michael, Clarke James, Cocker Myra, Green Jordin, Strohm Oliver, Friedrich Matthias G
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the accuracy and evaluation time of short axis and long axis methods for quantifying left ventricular volume and mass using cardiovascular magnetic resonance.
Conclusion
Both short axis and long axis techniques are highly accurate for measuring left ventricular volumes and mass, with the long axis approach being more reproducible and time-efficient in clinical settings.
Supporting Evidence
- The long axis method showed better inter-observer reproducibility and a 27% shorter evaluation time compared to the short axis method.
- LA volumes were underestimated by 13% using the long axis views.
- Intra-observer variability was assessed by having one observer analyze volumes with SAX twice and another with LAX twice.
Takeaway
This study looked at two ways to measure heart size and found that both work well, but one way is faster and easier for doctors to use.
Methodology
The study involved 12 explanted canine hearts and 46 patients, using a 1.5 T CMR system to measure left ventricular volumes and mass with both short axis and long axis methods.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to differences in experience among readers and the method of slice selection.
Limitations
The study did not systematically assess the impact of ventricular shape on results, and the applicability of findings may vary based on individual reader approaches.
Participant Demographics
46 participants (29 male, 17 female; mean age 47 ± 18 years), including 4 healthy volunteers and 42 patients with various cardiac conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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