Imaging or imagination of cardiac mechanics?
Ultrasound and MRI systems allow to measure many variables related to cardiac motion and deformation. These imaging modalities have the advantage to be non-invasive, thereby facilitating measurements in man. Many custom available parameters are, however, not useful for proper analysis of cardiac mechanics and can yield confusing results. This is especially relevant if important decisions for the patient have to be made and if complicated mechanical abnormalities are investigated, such as abnormal electrical activation of the ventricles. Recent developments in ultrasound technology and data analysis provide novel opportunities for better mechanical analysis and, presumably, better diagnosis.
Prinzen
Frits W
FW
Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. frits.prinzen@fys.unimaas.nl
D004452:Echocardiography / Q000379:methods*; D054459:Elasticity Imaging Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D006321:Heart / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D009200:Myocardial Contraction / Q000502:physiology*