Acoustic Quantification Today and Its Future Horizons.
We briefly review previously published work based on the uses of acoustic quantification (AQ) or validation of this technology. We also discuss the limitations of AQ in a critical review of the literature, including operator dependency, signal noise, and low temporal resolution. We describe some enhancements made to AQ software to address these limitations and improve the accuracy of this technique, including digital beam processing, harmonic imaging, and signal averaging. Several anticipated applications are also briefly described for those interested in the future development of this technology. These future applications include noninvasive long-term monitoring of ventricular function and objective assessment of regional ventricular wall motion in two and three dimensions.
Mor-Avi
Victor
The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Ave., M.C. 5084, Chicago, IL 60637.
Spencer
Kirk T.
KT
Lang
Roberto M.
RM