Multi-slice computer tomography of left ventricular function with automated analysis software in comparison with conventional ventriculography.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the accuracy of left ventricular volumetric and functional parameters from multi-slice computed tomography using automated analysis software, and to correlate results with those of invasive left ventriculography.


METHODS
In 145 consecutive patients (mean age, 61 years+/-12) known or suspected to have coronary artery disease, a 16-channel multi-slice computed tomography (Philips Mx8000 IDT 16) was performed using a standard technique. Using short-axis secondary multi-slice computed tomography reformations, we determined end-diastolic and end-systolic left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction with a commercially available analysis software capable of automated contour detection. Conventional left ventriculography was performed according to standard techniques within the following 24 h. Bland-Altman analysis was performed to calculate the limits of agreement and systematic errors between multi-slice computed tomography and conventional left ventriculography.


RESULTS
As determined by computer tomography, mean end-systolic (53+/-29 mL) left ventricular volumes had an acceptable correlation with conventional ventriculography (67+/-50 mL; r=0.74; p<0.001) and mean end-diastolic (119+/-33 mL) left ventricular volumes a poor correlation with conventional ventriculography measurements (154+/-69 mL; r=0.41). Left ventricular ejection fraction (57%+/-14 versus 55%+/-14 for conventional ventriculography; r=0.79) showed a very good correlation (p<0.001). Bland-Altman analysis showed acceptable limits of agreement (+/-9.2% for ejection fraction) without systematic errors.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of a multi-slice computed tomography with an automatic calculation software has a good correlation with conventional ventriculography findings and could accurately assess left ventricular function, but should not be used for ventricular volumes, because of biased estimations.
Gilard
Martine
M
Department of Cardiology, EA 3878, Brest University Hospital, Brest, France. martine.gilard@chu-brest.fr
Pennec
Pierre-Yves
PY
Cornily
Jean-Christophe
JC
Vinsonneau
Ulric
U
Le Gal
Gregoire
G
Nonent
Michel
M
Mansourati
Jacques
J
Boschat
Jacques
J
D002933:Cineradiography / Q000379:methods; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted; D003935:Diagnostic Techniques, Cardiovascular / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006352:Heart Ventricles / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement; D012984:Software; D015898:Tomography Scanners, X-Ray Computed / Q000145:classification / Q000592:standards*; D016277:Ventricular Function, Left
D003287:Contrast Media