Feasibility, Accuracy, and Reproducibility of Aortic Annular and Root Sizing for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Using Novel Automated Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Software: Comparison with Multi-Detector Row Computed Tomography

Aortic regurgitation: from mechanisms to management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is a common clinical disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Investigations based largely on non-invasive imaging are pivotal in discerning the severity of disease and its impact on the heart. Advances in technology have contributed to improved risk stratification and to our understanding of the pathophysiology of AR. Surgical aortic valve replacement is the predominant treatment. However, its use is limited to patients with an acceptable surgical risk profile. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is an alternative treatment. However, this therapy remains in its infancy, and further data and experience are required. This review article on AR describes its prevalence, mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment.

Aortic Valve Calcium Score: Applications in Clinical Practice and Scientific Research-A Narrative Review

In this narrative review, we investigate the essential role played by the computed tomography Aortic Valve Calcium Score (AVCS) in the cardiovascular diagnostic landscape, with a special focus on its implications for clinical practice and scientific research. Calcific aortic valve stenosis is the most prevalent type of aortic stenosis (AS) in industrialized countries, and due to the aging population, its prevalence is increasing. While transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) remains the gold standard, AVCS stands out as an essential complementary tool in evaluating patients with AS. The advantage of AVCS is its independence from flow; this allows for a more precise evaluation of patients with discordant findings in TTE. Further clinical applications of AVCS include in the assessment of patients before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), as it helps in predicting outcomes and provides prognostic information post-TAVR. Additionally, we describe different AVCS thresholds regarding gender and the anatomical variations of the aortic valve. Finally, we discuss various scientific studies where AVCS was applied. As AVCS has some limitations, due to the pathophysiologies of AS extending beyond calcification and gender differences, scientists strive to validate contrast-enhanced AVCS. Furthermore, research on developing radiation-free methods of measuring calcium content is ongoing.

Automated and semi-automated 3D echocardiographic software for aortic annulus sizing in transcatheter aortic valve implantation helps bridge the gap between expert and novice operators

3D-transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) is an alternative to multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) for aortic annulus (AoA) sizing in preparation for Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). We aim to evaluate how the fully automated (auto) and semi-automated (SA) TEE methods perform compared to conventional manual TEE method and the gold standard MDCT for annulus sizing both in expert and novice operators. In this prospective cohort study, eighty-nine patients with severe aortic stenosis underwent multimodality imaging with 3D-TEE and MDCT. Annular measurements were collected by expert echocardiographers using 3D auto, SA and manual methods and compared to MDCT. A novice in the field of echocardiography retrospectively measured the AoA for all patients using the same methods. TEE measurements, independently of the method used, had good to very good agreement to MDCT. They significantly underestimated aortic annular area and circumference vs. MDCT with the auto method underestimating it the most and the manual method the least (6.5% and 1.3% respectively for area and circumference). For experts, the manual TEE method offered the least systematic bias while the SA method had narrower limits of agreement (LOA). For the novice operator, SA method provided the least bias and narrower LOA vs. MDCT. There is good agreement between novice and experts for all 3 TEE methods but better agreement with auto and SA methods as opposed to manual one. Our study supports the use of 3D-TEE as a complementary method to MDCT for aortic annular sizing. The newer auto and SA software, that requires minimal operator intervention, is an easy to use, reliable and reproducible tool for aortic annulus sizing for experienced operators, and especially less experienced ones.

Multimodality imaging for patient selection, procedural guidance, and follow-up of transcatheter interventions for structural heart disease: a consensus document of the EACVI Task Force on Interventional Cardiovascular Imaging: part 1: access routes, transcatheter aortic valve implantation, and transcatheter mitral valve interventions

Transcatheter therapies for the treatment of structural heart diseases (SHD) have expanded dramatically over the last years, thanks to the developments and improvements of devices and imaging techniques, along with the increasing expertise of operators. Imaging, in particular echocardiography, is pivotal during patient selection, procedural monitoring, and follow-up. The imaging assessment of patients undergoing transcatheter interventions places demands on imagers that differ from those of the routine evaluation of patients with SHD, and there is a need for specific expertise for those working in the cath lab. In the context of the current rapid developments and growing use of SHD therapies, this document intends to update the previous consensus document and address new advancements in interventional imaging for access routes and treatment of patients with aortic stenosis and regurgitation, and mitral stenosis and regurgitation.

Computed tomography is better than echocardiography in predicting balloon-expandable transcutaneous implantation valve size in a real-world clinical practice single-center study

AIMS

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become the standard of care for selected patients with severe aortic stenosis. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and transoesophageal 2D/3D (two-dimensional/three-dimensional) echocardiography (ECHO) are used for aortic annulus (AA) sizing. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of AA sizing by ECHO versus MDCT for Edwards Sapien balloon expandable valve in a single center.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data from 145 consecutive patients with TAVR (Sapien XT or Sapien S3) were analyzed retrospectively. A total of 139 (96%) patients had favorable outcomes after TAVR (at most mild aortic regurgitation and only one valve implanted). The 3D ECHO AA area and area-derived diameter were smaller than the corresponding MDCT parameters (464 ± 99 vs. 479 ± 88 mm2 , p < .001, and 24.2 ± 2.7 vs. 25.0 ± 5.5 mm, p = .002, respectively). The 2D ECHO annulus measurement was smaller than both the MDCT and 3D ECHO area-derived diameters (22.6 ± 2.9 vs. 25.0 ± 5.5 mm, p = .013, and 22.6 ± 2.9 vs. 24.2 ± 2.7 mm, p < .001, respectively) but larger than the minor axis diameter of the AA derived from MDCT and 3D ECHO by multiplanar reconstruction (p < .001). The 3D ECHO circumference-derived diameter was also smaller than the MDCT circumference-derived diameter (24.3 ± 2.5 vs. 25.0 ± 2.3, p = .007). The sphericity index by 3D ECHO was smaller than that by MDCT (1.2 ± .1 vs. 1.3 ± .1, p < .001). In up to 1/3 of the patients, 3D ECHO measurements would have predicted different (generally smaller) valve size than was the valve size implanted with favorable result. The concordance of the implanted valve size with the recommended size based on preprocedural MDCT and 3D ECHO AA area was 79.4% versus 61% (p = .001), and for the area-derived diameter, the concordance was 80.1% versus 61.7% (p = .001). 2D ECHO diameter concordance was similar to MDCT (78.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

3D ECHO AA measurements are smaller than MDCT measurements. If 3D ECHO-based parameters alone are used to size the Edwards Sapien balloon expandable valve, then the selected valve size would have been smaller than the valve size implanted with favorable result in 1/3 of the patients. MDCT preprocedural TAVR assessment should be the preferred method over 3D ECHO in routine clinical practice to determine Edwards Sapien valve size.

Agreement between 4D transesophageal echocardiography and multi-detector computed tomography in measuring aortic root dimensions and coronary ostia heights

Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) is the gold standard non-invasive tool for evaluating aortic root dimensions. We assessed the agreement between 4D TEE and MDCT-derived aortic valve annular dimensions, coronary ostia height, and minor dimensions of sinuses of Valsalva (SoV) and sinotubular junction (STJ). In this prospective analytical study, we measured the annular area, annular perimeter, area-derived diameter, area-derived perimeter, left and right coronary ostial heights, and minor diameters of the SoV and the STJ using ECG-gated MDCT and 4D TEE. TEE measurements were calculated semi-automatically by the eSie valve software. We enrolled 43 adult patients (27 males, median age: 46 years). We found strong correlations and good agreement between the two modalities in annular dimensions (area, perimeter, area-derived diameter, and perimeter-derived diameter), left coronary ostial height, minimum STJ diameter, and minimum SoV diameters. Moderate correlations, and agreement, with relatively large differences between the 95% LOA, were demonstrated for the right coronary artery ostial height. 4D TEE correlates well with MDCT in measuring aortic annular dimensions, coronary ostial height, SoV minor diameter, and sinotubular junction minor diameter. Whether this can affect clinical outcomes is unknown. It could replace MDCT if the latter is unavailable or contraindicated.

Three-dimensional transoesophageal echocardiography: how to use and when to use-a clinical consensus statement from the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging of the European Society of Cardiology

Three-dimensional transoesophageal echocardiography (3D TOE) has been rapidly developed in the last 15 years. Currently, 3D TOE is particularly useful as an additional imaging modality for the cardiac echocardiographers in the echo-lab, for cardiac interventionalists as a tool to guide complex catheter-based procedures cardiac, for surgeons to plan surgical strategies, and for cardiac anaesthesiologists and/or cardiologists, to assess intra-operative results. The authors of this document believe that acquiring 3D data set should become a 'standard part' of the TOE examination. This document provides (i) a basic understanding of the physic of 3D TOE technology which enables the echocardiographer to obtain new skills necessary to acquire, manipulate, and interpret 3D data sets, (ii) a description of valvular pathologies, and (iii) a description of non-valvular pathologies in which 3D TOE has shown to be a diagnostic tool particularly valuable. This document has a new format: instead of figures randomly positioned through the text, it has been organized in tables which include figures. We believe that this arrangement makes easier the lecture by clinical cardiologists and practising echocardiographers.

Evolution of interventional imaging in structural heart disease

Treatments for structural heart diseases (SHD) have been considerably evolved by the widespread of transcatheter approach in the last decades. The progression of transcatheter treatments for SHD was feasible due to the improvement of devices and the advances in imaging techniques. In this setting, the cardiovascular imaging is pivotal not only for the diagnosis but even for the treatment of SHD. With the aim of fulfilling these tasks, a multimodality imaging approach with new imaging tools for pre-procedural planning, intra-procedural guidance, and follow-up of SHD was developed. This review will describe the current state-of-the-art imaging techniques for the most common percutaneous interventions as well as the new imaging tools. The imaging approaches will be addressed describing the use in pre-procedural planning, intra-procedural guidance, and follow-up.

The role of artificial intelligence in paediatric cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers the potential to change many aspects of paediatric cardiac imaging. At present, there are only a few clinically validated examples of AI applications in this field. This review focuses on the use of AI in paediatric cardiovascular MRI, using examples from paediatric cardiovascular MRI, adult cardiovascular MRI and other radiologic experience.

Analysis and Study on the Quality of Life of Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

OBJECTIVE

Explore the factors affecting the QO of life after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and analyze and evaluate their surgical efficacy and postoperative survival status.

METHODS

Through correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis, we predict various clinical characteristics and postoperative quality and predict clinical changes in L postoperative quality.

RESULTS

The quality of life of patients with the disease has gradually improved and improved from 6 months after surgery. The differences in the three aspects of its physiological mechanism function, physiological function function, overall health, and vitality are statistically significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Compared with traditional open-thoracic aortic valve (AV) surgery, TAVR has the significant advantages of smaller surgical incision and less trauma to the patient, which has become one of the reasons why patients are willing to accept it.

Manual zur Indikation und Durchführung spezieller echokardiographischer Anwendungen

Das zweite Manual zur Indikation und Durchführung der Echokardiographie bezieht sich auf spezifische Anwendungen der Echokardiographie und besondere Fragestellungen bei speziellen Patientengruppen. Dabei stehen v. a. praktische Aspekte im Vordergrund. Methodisch etabliert sind die transösophageale Echokardiographie, die Stressechokardiographie und die Kontrastechokardiographie. Bei nahezu allen echokardiographischen Untersuchungen spielen aktuell 3‑D-Echokardiographie und Deformationsbildgebung eine Rolle. Das gesamte Spektrum der echokardiographischen Möglichkeiten wird derzeit in Notfall- und Intensivmedizin, bei der Überwachung und Führung von Katheterinterventionen, bei strukturellen Herzerkrankungen, bei herzchirurgischen Operationen, bei der Nachsorge von kardialen Unterstützungssystemen, bei kongenitalen Vitien im Erwachsenenalter und bei der Versorgung von hochinfektiösen Patienten in Pandemiezeiten angewandt. Die diagnostischen Fortschritte der konventionellen und modernen echokardiographischen Anwendungen stehen im Fokus dieses Manuals. Die 3‑D-Echokardiographie zur Charakterisierung der kardialen Morphologie und die Deformationsbildgebung zur Objektivierung der kardialen Funktion sind bei vielen Indikationen im klinischen Alltag etabliert. Die Stressechokardiographie zur Ischämie‑, Vitalitäts- und Vitiendiagnostik, die Bestimmung der koronaren Flussreserve und die Kontrastechokardiographie bei der linksventrikulären Wandbewegungsanalyse und kardialen Tumordetektion finden zunehmend klinische Anwendung. Wie für die konventionelle Echokardiographie im ersten Manual der Echokardiographie 2009 beschrieben, erfordert der Einsatz moderner echokardiographischer Verfahren die standardisierte Dokumentation und Akquisition bestimmter Bildsequenzen bei optimierter Geräteeinstellung, da korrekte und reproduzierbare Auswertungen nur bei guter Bildqualität möglich sind.

The evolving role of artificial intelligence in cardiac image analysis

Research in artificial intelligence (AI) have progressed over the last decade. The field of cardiac imaging has seen significant developments using newly developed deep learning methods for automated image analysis and AI tools for disease detection and prognostication. This review article is aimed at those without special background in AI. We review AI concepts and we survey the growing contemporary applications of AI for image analysis in echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, cardiac computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and invasive angiography.

Risk and Mitigation of Coronary Obstruction in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Acute coronary artery occlusion is a rare but devastating complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Coronary obstruction is angiographic evidence of a new-partial or complete-obstruction of a coronary artery. Key factors identifying patients at risk are aortic root anatomy, type of aortic valve, and type of transcatheter heart valve. Techniques to prevent coronary obstruction include intentional leaflet laceration. If acute coronary obstruction does occur, bailout stenting can be challenging and conversion to emergent open heart surgery may be required, both of which are associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Application of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in preoperative evaluation of transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Background

Our goal was to determine the accuracy of 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) compared with that of computed tomography (CT) in the preoperative evaluation for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) when the errors caused by inconsistent software and method have been eliminated and the representativeness of the sample has been improved. We also investigated the influence of aortic root calcification on the accuracy of 3D-TEE in aortic annulus evaluations.

Methods

Part I: 45 of 233 patients who underwent TAVR in the department of cardiovascular surgery at the Xijing hospital from January 2016 to August 2019 were studied retrospectively. Materialise Mimics software and the multiplanar reconstruction method were used for evaluation, based on 3D-TEE and CT. The annulus area-derived diameter, the annulus perimeter-derived diameter (Dp), the annulus mean diameter, the left ventricular outflow tract Dp diameter, the sinotubular junction (STJ) diameter-Dp, and the aortic sinus diameter were compared and analyzed. Part II: 31 of 233 patients whose 3D-TEE and CT data were well preserved and in the required format were included. HU450 and HU850 were used as indicators to measure the severity of calcification. The Spearman rank correlation and Linear regression were used to analyze the correlation between aortic root calcification and the accuracy of 3D-TEE in aortic annulus measurement.

Results

The measurement results based on 3D-TEE were significantly lower than those obtained using CT (P < 0.05), except for the STJ diameter-Dp in diastole (P = 0.11). The correlation coefficient of the two groups was 0.699–0.954 (P < 0.01), which also indicated a significant correlation between the two groups. A Bland–Altman plot showed that the ordinate values were mostly within the 95% consistency limit; the consistency of the two groups was good. By establishing the linear regression equation, the two groups can be inferred from each other. The Spearman rank correlation analysis and the Linear regression analysis showed that the influence of aortic calcification on the accuracy of the 3D-TEE annulus evaluation was limited.

Conclusions

Although an evaluation based on 3D-TEE underestimated the results, we can deduce CT results from 3D-TEE because the two methods exhibit considerable correlation and consistency.

Trial registration

Name: Surgery and Transcatheter Intervention for Structural Heart Diseases. Number: NCT02917980. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=NCT02917980.

Two-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography Assessment of the Major Aortic Annulus Diameter in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Background:

Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is the gold standard in annulus sizing before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, MDCT has limited applicability in specific subgroups of patients, such as those with atrial fibrillation and chronic kidney disease. Two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2DTEE) has traditionally been limited to the long-axis measurement of the anteroposterior diameter of the aortic annulus. We describe a new 2DTEE approach for the measurement of the major diameter of the aortic annulus.

Methods:

Seventy-six patients with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis and high surgical risk underwent MDCT and 2DTEE before TAVR. A modified five-chamber view was used to measure the major aortic annulus diameter. This was obtained starting from a mid-esophageal four chamber and retracting the TEE probe up until the left ventricular outflow tract and the left and noncoronary aortic cusps were visualized: major aortic annulus diameter was measured as the distance between their insertion points in systole.

Results:

Major aortic annulus diameters measured at 2DTEE showed good correlation with MDCT diameter (r = 0.79; P < 0.001) and perimeter (r = 0.87; P < 0.0001). Using factsheet-derived sizing criteria, 2DTEE alone would have allowed accurate sizing in 75% of patients, with 21% of oversizing predominantly with smaller annuli.

Conclusions:

We describe a new method for 2DTEE measurement of the major aortic annulus diameter; this approach is simple, correlates with MDCT, and allows adequate TAVR sizing in most patients. These findings may help in the assessment of patients with contraindications to or inadequate MDCT images.

Aortic Annular Sizing Using Novel Software in Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

(1) Background: We performed this study to evaluate the agreement between novel automated software of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) and multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) for aortic annular measurements of preprocedural transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR); (2) Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library (Wiley) databases were systematically searched for studies that compared 3D-TEE and MDCT as the reference standard for aortic annular measurement of the following parameters: annular area, annular perimeter, area derived-diameter, perimeter derived-diameter, maximum and minimum diameter. Meta-analytic methods were utilized to determine the pooled correlations and mean differences between 3D-TEE and MDCT. Heterogeneity and publication bias were also assessed. Meta-regression analyses were performed based on the potential factors affecting the correlation of aortic annular area; (3) Results: A total of 889 patients from 10 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled correlation coefficients between 3D-TEE and MDCT of annulus area, perimeter, area derived-diameter, perimeter derived-diameter, maximum and minimum diameter measurements were strong 0.89 (95% CI: 0.84-0.92), 0.88 (95% CI: 0.83-0.92), 0.87 (95% CI: 0.77-0.93), 0.87 (95% CI: 0.77-0.93), 0.79 (95% CI: 0.64-0.87), and 0.75 (95% CI: 0.61-0.84) (Overall p < 0.0001), respectively. Pooled mean differences between 3D-TEE and MDCT of annulus area, perimeter, area derived-diameter, perimeter derived-diameter, maximum and minimum diameter measurements were -20.01 mm2 ((95% CI: -35.37 to -0.64), p = 0.011), -2.31 mm ((95% CI: -3.31 to -1.31), p < 0.0001), -0.22 mm ((95% CI: -0.73 to 0.29), p = 0.40), -0.47 mm ((95% CI: -1.06 to 0.12), p = 0.12), -1.36 mm ((95% CI: -2.43 to -0.30), p = 0.012), and 0.31 mm ((95% CI: -0.15 to 0.77), p = 0.18), respectively. There were no statistically significant associations with the baseline patient characteristics of sex, age, left ventricular ejection fraction, mean transaortic gradient, and aortic valve area to the correlation between 3D-TEE and MDCT for aortic annular area sizing; (4) Conclusions: The present study implies that 3D-TEE using novel software tools, automatically analysis, is feasible to MDCT for annulus sizing in clinical practice.

Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography as an Alternative to Multidetector Computed Tomography in Aortic Annular Diameter Measurements for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Simple Summary

Patients who have multiple associated comorbidities and need to change the aortic valve may have a contraindication to open-heart surgery, the alternative being transcatheter aortic valve implantation, which requires very precise measurements of the aortic annulus to determine the dimensions of the prostheses. Ultrasonographic imaging techniques, such as transesophageal echocardiography, are constantly evolving. The aim of our study was to compare the three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography and multi-detector computer tomography methods, with the former being an alternative for patients who cannot undergo computer tomography because of a major contraindication. We have demonstrated that there were small differences between aortic annular measurements using multi-detector computer tomography (2.25 ± 0.19 cm) and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2.25 ± 0.15 cm). Thus, three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography can be the solution for aortic annular measurements used to select the correct prosthesis for the transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedure in patients who cannot undergo computer tomography.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a therapeutic choice for high surgical risk patients, serving as an alternative to open-heart surgery. Correct measurement of the aortic annulus, which leads to the selection of a suitable prosthesis and accurate outcome prediction, is essential for the success of TAVI. The objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of novel imaging te chniques in measuring the aortic annulus by comparing multi-detector computer tomography (MDCT) and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE) for the selection of the optimal prosthesis. Materials and Methods: Measurements of the aortic annulus have been performed on 25 patients using MDCT and TEE, and the correlation and agreement levels between the two measuring techniques were analyzed. MDCT measurements were used for the sizing of the prostheses. Results: MDCT and TEE measurements of aortic annular diameters were significantly correlated, with a mean difference of 0.001 cm. Conclusions: 3D TEE measurements have been in good agreement with MDCT and, therefore, 3D TEE can be used as an alternative in cases where MDCT is contraindicated or not available.

Novelties in 3D Transthoracic Echocardiography

Cardiovascular imaging is developing at a rapid pace and the newer modalities, in particular three-dimensional echocardiography, allow better analysis of heart structures. Identifying valve lesions and grading their severity represents crucial information and nowadays is strengthened by the introduction of new software, such as transillumination, which provide detailed morphology descriptions. Chambers quantification has never been so rapid and accurate: machine learning algorithms generate automated volume measurements, including left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, which is extremely important for clinical decisions. This review provides an overview of the latest innovations in the echocardiography field, and is helpful by providing a better insight into heart diseases.

Integration of artificial intelligence into clinical patient management: focus on cardiac imaging

Cardiac imaging is a crucial component in the management of patients with heart disease, and as such it influences multiple, inter-related parts of the clinical workflow: physician-patient contact, image acquisition, image pre- and postprocessing, study reporting, diagnostics and outcome predictions, medical interventions, and, finally, knowledge-building through clinical research. With the gradual and ubiquitous infiltration of artificial intelligence into cardiology, it has become clear that, when used appropriately, it will influence and potentially improve-through automation, standardization and data integration-all components of the clinical workflow. This review aims to present a comprehensive view of full integration of artificial intelligence into the standard clinical patient management-with a focus on cardiac imaging, but applicable to all information handling-and to discuss current barriers that remain to be overcome before its widespread implementation and integration.

Prognostic Influence of Feature Tracking Multidetector Row Computed Tomography-Derived Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Treated With Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Computed tomography plays a central role in the evaluation of patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Advances in left ventricular (LV) analysis with multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) permit measurement of LV global longitudinal strain (GLS). The present study aimed at evaluating the association between feature tracking (FT) MDCT derived LV GLS and all-cause mortality in patients treated with TAVI. A total of 214 patients with severe aortic stenosis (51% male, 80 ± 7 years) who underwent TAVI and with dynamic MDCT data allowing LV GLS measurement with novel FT algorithm were included. LV GLS was measured at baseline and were divided according to a previously published cut-off value of LV GLS associated with all-cause mortality (≤-14% [more preserved LV systolic function] vs >-14% [more impaired LV systolic function]). Patients were followed for the occurrence of all-cause mortality. Mean FT MDCT-derived LV GLS was -12.5 ± 4%. During a median follow-up of 45 months (interquartile range: 29 to 62 months), 67 (31%) patients died. The cumulative rate of all-cause mortality for the patients with FT MDCT-derived LV GLS ≤-14% was 15% versus28% for the patients with FT MDCT-derived LV GLS >-14%, Log rank p = 0.001). FT MDCT-derived LV GLS was independently associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio: 0.851; 95% confidence interval: 0.772 to 0.937; p = 0.001). In conclusion, impaired FT MDCT-derived LV GLS is independently associated with all-cause mortality in patients treated with TAVI. Besides aortic valve area and calcification, FT MDCT-derived LV GLS is an important prognostic marker.

Validation of a Novel Software Tool for Automatic Aortic Annular Sizing in Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiographic Images

BACKGROUND

Accurate aortic annulus (AoA) sizing is crucial for transcatheter aortic valve implantation planning. Three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a viable alternative to the standard multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) for such assessment, with few automatic software solutions available. The aim of this study was to present and evaluate a novel software tool for automatic AoA sizing by 3D TEE.

METHODS

One hundred one patients who underwent both preoperative MDCT and 3D TEE were retrospectively analyzed using the software. The automatic software measurements' accuracy was compared against values obtained using standard manual MDCT, as well as against those obtained using manual 3D TEE, and intraobserver, interobserver, and test-retest reproducibility was assessed. Because the software can be used as a fully automatic or as an interactive tool, both options were addressed and contrasted. The impact of these measures on the recommended prosthesis size was then evaluated to assess if the software's automated sizes were concordant with those obtained using an MDCT- or a TEE-based manual sizing strategy.

RESULTS

The software showed very good agreement with manual values obtained using MDCT and 3D TEE, with the interactive approach having slightly narrower limits of agreement. The latter also had excellent intra- and interobserver variability. Both fully automatic and interactive analyses showed excellent test-retest reproducibility, with the first having a faster analysis time. Finally, either approach led to good sizing agreement against the true implanted sizes (>77%) and against MDCT-based sizes (>88%).

CONCLUSIONS

Given the automated, reproducible, and fast nature of its analyses, the novel software tool presented here may potentially facilitate and thus increase the use of 3D TEE for preoperative transcatheter aortic valve implantation sizing.

Accuracy of three-dimensional echocardiography in candidates for transcatheter aortic valve replacement

The correct determination of aortic annulus dimensions is a crucial step to avoid complications in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). Currently, the gold standard method for the evaluation of the aortic annulus is Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT), which is limited by the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy. Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography automated software (3DTEEa) have been used as an alternative in patients with contra-indications to MDCT. We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of 3DTEEa-derived aortic annulus dimensions; to assess the influence of calcification in the agreement between 3DTEEa and MDCT; and to determine reclassification in prosthesis size choice if 3DTEEa was the only imaging method. One hundred and seven consecutive patients referred for TAVR were studied. Aortic annulus dimensions were determined using MDCT and 3DTEE manual (3DTEEm) and automated measurements. Valve calcification was assessed with MDCT. Limits of agreement (LOA) were narrower for 3DTEEa (minimum diameter: mean bias 0.60; LOA - 2.94 to 4.14; maximum diameter: mean bias 0.20; LOA - 3.82 to 4.22) as compared to 3DTEEm (minimum diameter: mean bias 0.22; LOA - 3.84 to 4.28; maximum diameter: mean bias - 1.25; LOA - 6.37; 3.86). Compared to MDCT, 3DTEEa overestimated while 3DTEEm underestimated most parameters. No differences were found in average bias between methods according to quartiles of valve calcification. Most patients would have received the same size valve (63.9%) if 3DTEEa was the only available method. Measurement of aortic annulus dimensions using a 3DTEE automatic software is feasible and not influenced by valve calcification. It may be an alternative for patients who cannot undergo MDCT.

Three-Dimensional Echocardiography for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Sizing: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is the standard of care for many patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis and relies on accurate sizing of the aortic annulus. It has been suggested that 3‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE) may be used instead of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) for TAVR planning. This systematic review and meta‐analysis compared 3D TEE and MDCT for pre‐TAVR measurements.

Methods and Results

A systematic literature search was performed. The primary outcome was the correlation coefficient between 3D TEE– and MDCT‐measured annular area. Secondary outcomes were correlation coefficients for mean annular diameter, annular perimeter, and left ventricular outflow tract area; interobserver and intraobserver agreements; mean differences between 3D TEE and MDCT measurements; and pooled sensitivities, specificities, and receiver operating characteristic area under curve values of 3D TEE and MDCT for discriminating post‐TAVR paravalvular aortic regurgitation. A random effects model was used. Meta‐regression and leave‐one‐out analysis for the primary outcome were performed. Nineteen studies with a total of 1599 patients were included. Correlations between 3D TEE and MDCT annular area, annular perimeter, annular diameter, and left ventricular outflow tract area measurements were strong (0.86 [95% CI, 0.80–0.90]; 0.89 [CI, 0.82–0.93]; 0.80 [CI, 0.70–0.87]; and 0.78 [CI, 0.61–0.88], respectively). Mean differences between 3D TEE and MDCT between measurements were small and nonsignificant. Interobserver and intraobserver agreement and discriminatory abilities for paravalvular aortic regurgitation were good for both 3D TEE and MDCT.

Conclusions

For pre‐TAVR planning, 3D TEE is comparable to MDCT. In patients with renal dysfunction, 3D TEE may be potentially advantageous for TAVR measurements because of the lack of contrast exposure.

Automated Spectral Doppler Profile Tracing

OBJECTIVE

The authors hypothesized that automated tracings of both pulsed wave (PW) and continuous wave (CW) Doppler correlate well with manual measurements performed by an experienced echocardiographer.

DESIGN

The authors performed a retrospective analysis of spectral Doppler profile measurements performed by automated software and an echocardiographer.

SETTING

University hospital, single institution.

PARTICIPANTS

The authors reviewed transesophageal echocardiographic examinations from patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve (AV) replacement procedures at their institution.

INTERVENTIONS

No interventions were performed solely for research purposes.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

PW and CW spectral envelopes at the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) and AV were analyzed. Blinded, a board-certified echocardiographer performed manual measurements of the identical spectral envelopes. Peak velocities, mean gradients, and velocity time integrals (VTI) were collected. A total of 33 PW as well as 33 CW Doppler spectral envelopes were evaluated. There was no significant difference between the measurements provided by the automated software and manual tracings. LVOT PW VTI automated versus manual: 18.2 cm versus 15.9 cm, p = 0.11. AV CW VTI automated versus manual: 65.8 cm versus 64.8 cm, p = 0.90. AV CW mean gradient automated versus manual: 24.3 mmHg versus 23.4 mmHg, p = 0.84. AV CW peak velocity automated versus manual: 3.00 m/s versus 2.98 m/s, p = 0.93. Correlation coefficients were all above 0.9.

CONCLUSIONS

Automated measurements of peak velocities, mean gradients, and VTI of spectral Doppler correlate closely with manual measurements performed by an experienced echocardiographer.

Aortic roots assessment by an automated three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography: an intra-individual comparison

To evaluate the accuracy, reproducibility, and transcatheter heart valve (THV) sizing efficiency of an automated 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiographic (3D-TEE) post-processing software in the assessments of aortic roots, intra-individually compared with multidetector computed tomography (MDCT). We prospectively studied 67 patients with normal aortic roots. We measured diameters of aortic annulus (AA), sinus of Valsalva (SOV), and sino-tubular junction (STJ) by full-automated and semi-automated methods using 3D-TEE datasets, then compared them to corresponding transthoracic echocardiography and MDCT values. THV sizes were chosen based on echocardiography and MDCT measurements according to recommended criterion. Taking MDCT planimetered diameters as reference, the full-automated (r: 0.4745-0.8792) and semi-automated (r: 0.6647-0.8805) 3D-TEE measurements were linearly correlated (p < 0.0001). The average differences between semi-automated or full-automated measurements and reference were 0.3 mm or 1.3 mm for AA, - 1.9 mm or - 0.5 mm for SOV, and - 0.1 mm or 1.9 mm for STJ, respectively. The intra-class correlation coefficients of semi-automated method were 0.79-0.96 (intra-observer) and 0.75-0.92 (inter-observer). THV sizing by semi-automated measurements using echocardiographic criteria was larger than that by MDCT measurements using MDCT criteria (p < 0.0001) but equivalent (p > 0.05) if both using MDCT standards. The new automated 3D-TEE software allows modeling and quantifying aortic roots with high reproducibility. Measurements by the semi-automated method closely approximate and well correlate with the corresponding MDCT, thus THV sizing by this modeled 3D-TEE measurements should adopt recommended MDCT criteria but not echocardiographic criteria. The full-automated 3D-TEE segmentations are yet immature. (Semi-automated assessMent of Aortic Roots by Three-dimensional transEsophageal echocaRdiography [SMARTER], NCT02724709).

Measurement of the Aortic Annulus Area and Diameter by Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

OBJECTIVES

Sizing of the aortic valve is crucial for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is used for sizing. Recently, three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) has enabled accurate measurement of the aortic annulus area and diameter in cases that are difficult to measure. The authors compared measurements of aortic annulus areas and diameters acquired by MDCT and 3DTEE.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING

Single national center.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-eight patients who underwent TAVR replacement between September 2015 and March 2017.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The authors extracted and compared preoperative measurements of the aortic annulus area, as well as the long- and short-axis diameter, measured by MDCT and 3DTEE. There was no significant difference in the aortic annulus area (409 ± 74 v 414 ± 70 mm², p = 0.15) or short-axis diameter (20.4 ± 2.0 v 20.6 ± 1.9 mm, p = 0.103) between 3DTEE and MDCT, but the long-axis diameter differed significantly (25.0 ± 2.4 v 25.8 ± 2.0 mm, p < 0.001), respectively. Prosthesis sizes based on 3DTEE and MDCT were the same, except in 3 patients who could not stay still during MDCT measurement; in those cases, prosthesis sizes based on 3DTEE were adopted.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurements of the aortic annulus area and diameter in TAVR were similar between 3DTEE and MDCT. Patients who have difficulty remaining still during MDCT measurement because of dementia should have their prostheses sized based on 3DTEE measurements.

Assessment of aortic valve tract dynamics using automatic tracking of 3D transesophageal echocardiographic images

The assessment of aortic valve (AV) morphology is paramount for planning transcatheter AV implantation (TAVI). Nowadays, pre-TAVI sizing is routinely performed at one cardiac phase only, usually at mid-systole. Nonetheless, the AV is a dynamic structure that undergoes changes in size and shape throughout the cardiac cycle, which may be relevant for prosthesis selection. Thus, the aim of this study was to present and evaluate a novel software tool enabling the automatic sizing of the AV dynamically in three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) images. Forty-two patients who underwent preoperative 3D-TEE images were retrospectively analyzed using the software. Dynamic measurements were automatically extracted at four levels, including the aortic annulus. These measures were used to assess the software's ability to accurately and reproducibly quantify the conformational changes of the aortic root and were validated against automated sizing measurements independently extracted at distinct time points. The software extracted physiological dynamic measurements in less than 2 min, that were shown to be accurate (error 2.2 ± 26.3 mm² and 0.0 ± 2.53 mm for annular area and perimeter, respectively) and highly reproducible (0.85 ± 6.18 and 0.65 ± 7.90 mm² of intra- and interobserver variability, respectively, in annular area). Using the maximum or minimum measured values rather than mid-systolic ones for device sizing resulted in a potential change of recommended size in 7% and 60% of the cases, respectively. The presented software tool allows a fast, automatic and reproducible dynamic assessment of the AV morphology from 3D-TEE images, with the extracted measures influencing the device selection depending on the cardiac moment used to perform its sizing. This novel tool may thus ease and potentially increase the observer's confidence during prosthesis' size selection at the preoperative TAVI planning.

Artificial intelligence and echocardiography

Echocardiography plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular disease. However, interpretation remains largely reliant on the subjective expertise of the operator. As a result inter-operator variability and experience can lead to incorrect diagnoses. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies provide new possibilities for echocardiography to generate accurate, consistent and automated interpretation of echocardiograms, thus potentially reducing the risk of human error. In this review, we discuss a subfield of AI relevant to image interpretation, called machine learning, and its potential to enhance the diagnostic performance of echocardiography. We discuss recent applications of these methods and future directions for AI-assisted interpretation of echocardiograms. The research suggests it is feasible to apply machine learning models to provide rapid, highly accurate and consistent assessment of echocardiograms, comparable to clinicians. These algorithms are capable of accurately quantifying a wide range of features, such as the severity of valvular heart disease or the ischaemic burden in patients with coronary artery disease. However, the applications and their use are still in their infancy within the field of echocardiography. Research to refine methods and validate their use for automation, quantification and diagnosis are in progress. Widespread adoption of robust AI tools in clinical echocardiography practice should follow and have the potential to deliver significant benefits for patient outcome.

Computed Tomography Assessment for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement has become a mainstream therapeutic option for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at intermediate risk or high risk for surgical valve replacement. Computed tomography (CT) is now the standard imaging modality for preoperative vascular access planning an aortic annular sizing. This article reviews the established and potential future roles of CT in transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

Automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence in echocardiography: A brave new world

Automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI) are changing the landscape of echocardiography providing complimentary tools to physicians to enhance patient care. Multiple vendor software programs have incorporated automation to improve accuracy and efficiency of manual tracings. Automation with longitudinal strain and 3D echocardiography has shown great accuracy and reproducibility allowing the incorporation of these techniques into daily workflow. This will give further experience to nonexpert readers and allow the integration of these essential tools into more echocardiography laboratories. The potential for machine learning in cardiovascular imaging is still being discovered as algorithms are being created, with training on large data sets beyond what traditional statistical reasoning can handle. Deep learning when applied to large image repositories will recognize complex relationships and patterns integrating all properties of the image, which will unlock further connections about the natural history and prognosis of cardiac disease states. The purpose of this review article was to describe the role and current use of automation, machine learning, and AI in echocardiography and discuss potential limitations and challenges of in the future.

A systematic approach to 3D echocardiographic assessment of the aortic root

[first paragraph of article]Severe aortic regurgitation (AR) and/or severe abnormalities of the aortic root and the tubular ascending aorta (TAA) are indications for surgical treatment. The correct diagnosis, the choice of optimal treatment, as well as optimal timing of surgery, mainly depend on findings obtained by echocardiography - which is usually the initial diagnostic modality applied in clinical practice. Therefore, an appropriate morphological and functional quantification of the aortic valve (AV) and the aortic root complex is required. Aside from the need of standardization to provide a precise objective evaluation, the use of modern echocardiographic technologies - especially 3D-echocardiography -are less often implemented in clinical routine. The present manuscript focuses on the advantages of transthoracic and transesophageal 3D-echocardiography (TTE, TEE) for an improved assessment of the AV and the aortic root complex to provide accurate and comprehensive measurements for making the correct diagnosis and defining further therapeutic strategies.