Left ventricular endocardial surface detection based on real-time 3D echocardiographic data

C. Corsi, M. Borsari, F. Consegnati, A. Sarti*, C. Lamberti, A. Travaglini, T. Shiota, J. D. Thomas

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

25 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: A new computerized semi-automatic method for left ventricular (LV) chamber segmentation is presented. Methods: The LV is imaged by real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE). The surface detection model, based on level set techniques, is applied to RT3DE data for image analysis. The modified level set partial differential equation we use is solved by applying numerical methods for conservation laws. The initial conditions are manually established on some slices of the entire volume. The solution obtained for each slice is a contour line corresponding with the boundary between LV cavity and LV endocardium. Results: The mathematical model has been applied to sequences of frames of human hearts (volume range: 34-109 ml) imaged by 2D and reconstructed off-line and RT3DE data. Volume estimation obtained by this new semi-automatic method shows an excellent correlation with those obtained by manual tracing (r=0.992). Dynamic change of LV volume during the cardiac cycle is also obtained. Conclusion: The volume estimation method is accurate; edge based segmentation, image completion and volume reconstruction can be accomplished. The visualization technique also allows to navigate into the reconstructed volume and to display any section of the volume.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)41-51
Number of pages11
JournalEuropean Journal of Ultrasound
Volume13
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001

Keywords

  • Level set technique
  • Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography
  • Volume estimation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Bioengineering
  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging
  • Acoustics and Ultrasonics

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