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Reitz JG, Meier JM, Berg C, Weber EC, Gembruch U, Wolter A, Sterzbecher V, Bedei I, Axt-Fliedner R. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in fetuses with critical aortic stenosis before and after fetal aortic valvuloplasty. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 310:817-824. [PMID: 38363396 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07376-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical aortic stenosis (AS) in fetuses may progress to hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with need for postnatal single ventricular (SV) palliation. Fetal aortic valvuloplasty (FAV) is performed to achieve postnatal biventricular (BV) circulation. However, the impact of FAV on fetal myocardial function is difficult to measure. Prediction of postnatal circulatory status and, therefore, counseling is challenging. METHODS Retrospective study of fetuses with critical AS who underwent FAV. Global Longitudinal Peak Systolic Strain (GLPSS) of the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) were retrospectively analyzed before and after intervention. Fisher's Exact Test and Mann-Whitney-U Test were used for univariant statistical analysis. RESULTS 23 fetuses with critical AS were included. After intervention fetuses demonstrated more negative LV-GLPSS mean values post- vs. pre-intervention (- 5.36% vs. - 1.57%; p < 0.05). RV-GLPSS was decreased in all fetuses, there was no peri-interventional change. 20 fetuses were born alive. Postnatally, 10 had BV and 10 SV circulation. Improved post-interventional LV-GLPSS strain values correlated with BV outcome (p < 0.05). Pre-interventional continuous LV-GLPSS values correlated with postnatal SV vs. BV outcome (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION In some fetuses, LV myocardial function assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) improves after FAV. Improved post-interventional LV-GLPSS correlates with biventricular postnatal outcome. Furthermore, pre-interventional LV- and RV-GLPSS correlate with postnatal outcome. Further studies are needed to asses, if pre-interventional STE parameters might predict which fetuses will benefit from FAV with postnatal BV circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justus G Reitz
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Giessen, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Johanna M Meier
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Giessen, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christoph Berg
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Eva C Weber
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ulrich Gembruch
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Aline Wolter
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Giessen, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Vanessa Sterzbecher
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Giessen, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ivonne Bedei
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Giessen, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Roland Axt-Fliedner
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Giessen, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
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Anuwutnavin S, Russameecharoen K, Ruangvutilert P, Viboonchard S, Sklansky M, DeVore GR. Reference Ranges and Development Patterns of Fetal Myocardial Function Using Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Healthy Fetuses at 17 to 24 Weeks of Gestation. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:1432-1444. [PMID: 37164318 DOI: 10.1055/a-2090-5581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purposes of the study were to develop reference ranges and maturation patterns of fetal cardiac function parameters measured by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) using multiple biometric variables at 17 to 24 weeks' gestation among Thai fetuses and to compare with other previous reports. STUDY DESIGN The four-chamber view of the fetal heart in 79 healthy fetuses was suitably analyzed by STE to establish the best-fit regression model. The 95% reference intervals and Z-score equations of fetal cardiac function parameters were computed. RESULTS The fractional area change of both ventricles, left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, LV stroke volume, LV cardiac output (CO), and LV CO per kilogram were all increased according to gestational age (GA) and five fetal biometric measurements. However, the global longitudinal strain, basal-apical length fractional shortening (BAL-FS), BAL annular free wall and septal wall FS, BAL free wall and septal wall annular plane systolic excursions, 24-segment transverse width FS, as well as LV ejection fraction were all independent of GA or other somatic characteristics. There were varying development patterns between fetal right and left ventricles of these cardiac function indices across the gestation period. CONCLUSION Our study created Z-score and corresponding centile calculators, 5th and 95th centile reference tables, and corresponding graphs and determined the normal evolution across gestation using multiple somatic growth and age variables between 17 and 24 gestational weeks. These nomograms serve as an essential prerequisite for quantitatively evaluating fetal cardiac contractility and allow for precisely detecting early changes in the fetal heart function. KEY POINTS · Most fetal cardiac function measurements were correlated with all the independent variables.. · Fetal ventricular function parameters have their own characteristic maturation changes.. · Racial variability may not occupy an important place for fetal myocardial function during these GA..
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanitra Anuwutnavin
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kusol Russameecharoen
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pornpimol Ruangvutilert
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sommai Viboonchard
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mark Sklansky
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Greggory R DeVore
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
- The Fetal Diagnostic Centers, Pasadena, California
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3
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Scharf JL, Dracopoulos C, Gembicki M, Rody A, Welp A, Weichert J. How automated techniques ease functional assessment of the fetal heart: Applicability of two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography for comprehensive analysis of global and segmental cardiac deformation using fetalHQ®. Echocardiography 2024; 41:e15833. [PMID: 38873982 DOI: 10.1111/echo.15833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal echocardiographic assessment of fetal cardiac function has become increasingly important. Fetal two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) allows the determination of global and segmental functional cardiac parameters. Prenatal diagnostics is relying increasingly on artificial intelligence, whose algorithms transform the way clinicians use ultrasound in their daily workflow. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of whether less experienced operators can handle and might benefit from an automated tool of 2D-STE in the clinical routine. METHODS A total of 136 unselected, normal, singleton, second- and third-trimester fetuses with normofrequent heart rates were examined by targeted ultrasound. 2D-STE was performed separately by beginner and expert semiautomatically using a GE Voluson E10 (FetalHQ®, GE Healthcare, Chicago, IL). Several fetal cardiac parameters were calculated (end-diastolic diameter [ED], sphericity index [SI], global longitudinal strain [EndoGLS], fractional shortening [FS]) and assigned to gestational age (GA). Bland-Altman plots were used to test agreement between both operators. RESULTS The mean maternal age was 33 years, and the mean maternal body mass index prior to pregnancy was 24.78 kg/m2. The GA ranged from 16.4 to 32.0 weeks (average 22.9 weeks). Averaged endoGLS value of the beginner was -18.57% ± 6.59 percentage points (pp) for the right and -19.58% ± 5.63 pp for the left ventricle, that of the expert -14.33% ± 4.88 pp and -16.37% ± 5.42 pp. With increasing GA, right ventricular endoGLS decreased slightly while the left ventricular was almost constant. The statistical analysis for endoGLS showed a Bland-Altman-Bias of -4.24 pp ± 8.06 pp for the right and -3.21 pp ± 7.11 pp for the left ventricle. The Bland-Altman-Bias of the ED in both ventricles in all analyzed segments ranged from -.49 mm ± 1.54 mm to -.10 mm ± 1.28 mm, that for FS from -.33 pp ± 11.82 pp to 3.91 pp ± 15.56 pp and that for SI from -.38 ± .68 to -.15 ± .45. CONCLUSIONS Between both operators, our data indicated that 2D-STE analysis showed excellent agreement for cardiac morphometry parameters (ED and SI), and good agreement for cardiac function parameters (EndoGLS and FS). Due to its complexity, the application of fetal 2D-STE remains the domain of scientific-academic perinatal ultrasound and should be placed preferably in the hands of skilled operators. At present, from our perspective, an implementation into clinical practice "on-the-fly" cannot be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jann Lennard Scharf
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Christoph Dracopoulos
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Michael Gembicki
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Achim Rody
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Amrei Welp
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jan Weichert
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
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Medjedovic E, Begic Z, Stanojevic M, Aziri B, Begic E, Djukic M, Mladenovic Z, Kurjak A. Left atrial strain in fetal echocardiography - could it be introduced to everyday clinical practice? J Perinat Med 2024; 52:230-238. [PMID: 38095322 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prenatal cardiology is a part of preventive cardiology based on fetal echocardiography and fetal interventional cardiology, which facilitates treatment of congenital heart defects (CHD) in pediatric patients and consequently in adults. Timely prenatal detection of CHD plays a pivotal role in facilitating the appropriate referral of pregnant women to facilities equipped to provide thorough perinatal care within the framework of a well-structured healthcare system. The aim of this paper is to highlight the role of left atrial strain (LAS) in prenatal evaluation of fetal heart and prediction of structural and functional disorders. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive literature review searching PubMed for articles published from inception up until August 2023, including the search terms "left atrial strain", "fetal echocardiography", and "prenatal cardiology" combined through Boolean operators. In addition, references lists of identified articles were further reviewed for inclusion. RESULTS Our review underscores the significance of LAS parameters in fetal echocardiography as a screening tool during specific gestational windows (starting from 11 to 14 weeks of gestation, followed by better visualization between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation). The left atrial strain technique and its parameters serve as valuable indicators, not only for identifying cardiac complications but also for predicting and guiding therapeutic interventions in cases of both cardiac and noncardiac pregnancy complications in fetuses. Evidence suggests establishment of second-trimester reference strain and strain rate values by speckle-tracking echocardiography in the healthy fetal cohort is essential for the evaluation of myocardial pathologies during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Finding of LAS of fetal heart is feasible and probably can have potential for clinical and prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edin Medjedovic
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Zijo Begic
- Department of Cardiology, Pediatric Clinic, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Milan Stanojevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Buena Aziri
- Department of Pharmacology, Sarajevo Medical School, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Edin Begic
- Department of Pharmacology, Sarajevo Medical School, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital "Prim. Dr. Abdulah Nakas", Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Milan Djukic
- Department of Cardiology, University Children's Hospital, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorica Mladenovic
- Department of Cardiology, Military Medical Academy, University of Defense, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Defense, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Asim Kurjak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
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5
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Begic Z, Djukic M, Begic E, Aziri B, Mladenovic Z, Iglica A, Sabanovic-Bajramovic N, Begic N, Kovacevic-Preradovic T, Stanetic B, Badnjevic A. Left atrial strain analysis in the realm of pediatric cardiology: Advantages and implications. Technol Health Care 2024; 32:1255-1272. [PMID: 37840514 DOI: 10.3233/thc-231087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Left atrial (LA) strain analysis has emerged as a noninvasive technique for assessing LA function and early detection of myocardial deformation. Recently, its application has also shown promise in the pediatric population, spanning diverse cardiac conditions that demand accurate and sensitive diagnostic measures. OBJECTIVE This research article endeavors to explore the role of LA strain parameters and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in pediatric cardiology, paving the way for more effective and tailored approaches to patient care. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather evidence from studies using echocardiographic strain imaging techniques across pediatric populations. RESULTS LA strain parameters exhibited greater sensitivity than conventional atrial function indicators, with early detection of diastolic dysfunction and LA remodeling in pediatric cardiomyopathy, children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome, rheumatic heart disease, as well as childhood renal insufficiency and obesity offering prognostic relevance as potential markers in these pediatric subpopulations. However, there remains a paucity of evidence concerning pediatric mitral valve pathology, justifying further exploration. CONCLUSION LA strain analysis carries crucial clinical and prognostic implications in pediatric cardiac conditions, with reliable accuracy and sensitivity to early functional changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijo Begic
- Department of Cardiology, Pediatric Clinic, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Milan Djukic
- Department of Cardiology, University Children's Hospital, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Edin Begic
- Department of Pharmacology, Sarajevo Medical School, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital "Prim. Dr. Abdulah Nakas", Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Buena Aziri
- Department of Pharmacology, Sarajevo Medical School, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Zorica Mladenovic
- Department of Cardiology, Military Medical Academy, University of Defense, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Amer Iglica
- Intensive Care Unit, Clinic for Heart, Blood Vessels and Rheumatism, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Nirvana Sabanovic-Bajramovic
- Intensive Care Unit, Clinic for Heart, Blood Vessels and Rheumatism, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Nedim Begic
- Department of Cardiology, Pediatric Clinic, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Tamara Kovacevic-Preradovic
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of the Republic of Srpska, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Bojan Stanetic
- Department of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of the Republic of Srpska, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Almir Badnjevic
- Verlab Research Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Medical Devices and Artificial Intelligence, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Enzensberger C, Graupner O, Fischer S, Meister M, Reitz M, Götte M, Müller V, Wolter A, Herrmann J, Axt-Fliedner R. Evaluation of right ventricular myocardial deformation properties in fetal hypoplastic left heart by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 307:699-708. [PMID: 36759358 PMCID: PMC9984504 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06857-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Right ventricular (RV) function influences the outcome of hypoplastic left heart (HLH) patients. This study aimed to confirm the assumption of prenatal RV remodeling and possible influencing factors of myocardial restructuring using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D STE). METHODS This is a retrospective cross-sectional cohort study including HLH fetuses and gestational age-matched controls. Based on a four-chamber view, cine loops were stored with 60 frames per second. Global longitudinal peak systolic strain (GLPSS) of the RV was retrospectively determined and compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, HLH subgroups were built according to the presence of left ventricular endocardial fibroelastosis (LV-EFE) and restrictive foramen ovale (FO) to investigate the effect of these compromising factors on myocardial deformation. RESULTS A total of 41 HLH fetuses and 101 controls were included. Gestational age at fetal assessment was similarly distributed in both groups (controls: 26.0 ± 5.6 weeks vs. HLH: 29.1 ± 5.6 weeks). Relating to RV-GLPSS values, fetuses with HLH demonstrated lower mean values than healthy control fetuses (- 15.65% vs. - 16.80%, p = 0.065). Cases with LV-EFE (n = 11) showed significantly lower mean values compared to such without LV-EFE (n = 30) (RV-GLPSS: - 12.12% vs. - 16.52%, p = 0.003). No significant differences were observed for cases with FO restriction (n = 10). CONCLUSIONS In HLH the RV undergoes prenatal remodeling, leading to an adaptation of myocardial function to LV conditions. Further explorations by STE should expand knowledge about RV contraction properties in HLH and its impact on surgical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Enzensberger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Oliver Graupner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Rechts der Isar, Technical University, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Fischer
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Markus Meister
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Maleen Reitz
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Malena Götte
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Vera Müller
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Aline Wolter
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Roland Axt-Fliedner
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
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Ren M, Chan WX, Green L, Armstrong A, Tulzer A, Tulzer G, Buist ML, Yap CH. Contribution of Ventricular Motion and Sampling Location to Discrepancies in Two-Dimensional Versus Three-Dimensional Fetal Ventricular Strain Measures. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2023; 36:543-552. [PMID: 36623710 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2022.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Echocardiographic quantification of fetal cardiac strain is important to evaluate function and the need for intervention, with both two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) strain measurements currently feasible. However, discrepancies between 2D and 3D measurements have been reported, the etiologies of which are unclear. This study sought to determine the etiologies of the differences between 2D and 3D strain measurements. METHODS A validated cardiac motion-tracking algorithm was used on 3D cine ultrasound images acquired in 26 healthy fetuses. Both 2D and 3D myocardial strain quantifications were performed on each image set for controlled comparisons. Finite element modeling of 2 left ventricle (LV) models with minor geometrical differences were performed with various helix angle configurations for validating image processing results. RESULTS Three-dimensional longitudinal strain (LS) was significantly lower than 2D LS for the LV free wall and septum but not for the right ventricular (RV) free wall, while 3D circumferential strain (CS) was significantly higher than 2D CS for the LV, RV, and septum. The LS discrepancy was due to 2D long-axis imaging not capturing the out-of-plane motions associated with LV twist, while the CS discrepancy was due to the systolic motion of the heart toward the apex that caused out-of-plane motions in 2D short-axis imaging. A timing mismatch between the occurrences of peak longitudinal and circumferential dimensions caused a deviation in zero-strain referencing between 2D and 3D strain measurements, contributing to further discrepancies between the 2. CONCLUSIONS Mechanisms for discrepancies between 2D and 3D strain measurements in fetal echocardiography were identified, and inaccuracies associated with 2D strains were highlighted. Understanding of this mechanism is useful and important for future standardization of fetal cardiac strain measurements, which we propose to be important in view of large discrepancies in measured values in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meifeng Ren
- Deparment of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Xuan Chan
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Green
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aimee Armstrong
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Andreas Tulzer
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Gerald Tulzer
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Martin L Buist
- Deparment of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Choon Hwai Yap
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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8
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Graupner O, Ried C, Wildner NK, Ortiz JU, Kuschel B, Haller B, Oberhoffer R, Wacker-Gußmann A, Lobmaier SM. Myocardial deformation analysis in late-onset small-for-gestational-age and growth-restricted fetuses using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography: a prospective cohort study. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:305-312. [PMID: 34529908 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2021-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An association between fetal growth restriction (FGR) and increased predisposition to cardiovascular disease (CVD) is suggested. The aim of this study was to evaluate subclinical signs of fetal cardiac remodeling in late-onset small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and growth-restricted fetuses using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). METHODS This is a prospective cohort study, including 117 late-onset (≥32 weeks) SGA (birthweight≤10th centile) fetuses and 102 gestational age matched controls. A subgroup analysis was performed: FGR was defined based on either BW (<third centile) or the presence of feto-maternal Doppler abnormalities, the remaining cases were called SGA centile 3-10. 2D-STE based myocardial deformation analyses included longitudinal peak systolic strain (LPSS) and strain rate (LSR) of the global left (LV) or right (RV) ventricle and its individual segments. RESULTS Global and segmental LPSS and LSR values showed no significant difference between late-onset SGA and control fetuses for both ventricles (p>0.05). Regarding global and segmental LPSS and LSR values of LV/RV, subgroup analysis revealed no significant difference between the FGR (n=81), SGA centile 3-10 (n=36) and control group. CONCLUSIONS A mild degree of placental dysfunction seems not to influence myocardial deformation properties measured by 2D-STE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Graupner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Christina Ried
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Nadia K Wildner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Javier U Ortiz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina Kuschel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Haller
- Statistics and Epidemiology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Institute of Medical Informatics, Munich, Germany
| | - Renate Oberhoffer
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, Munich, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Defects, German Heart Centre Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Annette Wacker-Gußmann
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, Munich, Germany.,Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Defects, German Heart Centre Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia M Lobmaier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
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9
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Speckle-Tracking Global Longitudinal and Regional Strain Analysis in Neonates with Coarctation of Aorta: A Case-Control Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10194579. [PMID: 34640597 PMCID: PMC8509133 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Our objectives are to compare speckle-tracking peak global longitudinal (pGLS) and regional strain values in neonates with coarctation of aorta (CoA) and control groups. Echocardiographic parameters measured by speckle-tracking were studied in a retrospective single-center study. A comparison of pGLS and segmental deformation between neonates with CoA and control group was performed using a three-way mixed ANOVA model. There was a significant difference in the means of segmental strain values between CoA and control group at the apical (p = 0.018) and basal segments (p = 0.031) of the interventricular septum and at the apical segment (p = 0.026) of the left ventricle (LV). After correcting for multiple comparisons, the results had a tendency toward statistical significance (adjusted-p < 0.10). There was significant difference in the mean values of pGLS [F(1, 39) = 7.61, p = 0.009, adjusted p = 0.018] between the studied groups. The results of ROC analysis showed that a cut-off value of −16.60% for pGLS provided an estimated sensitivity of 92.31% (95% CI: [63.97, 99.81]) and 71.43% specificity (95% CI: [51.33, 86.78]) for the diagnosis of CoA in neonates (AUC = 0.794, 95% CI: [0.66, 0.93]). pGLS can be regarded as a feasible and reproducible parameter reflecting LV dysfunction in newborns with CoA when compared to newborns with a false-positive diagnosis.
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Huntley ES, Hernandez-Andrade E, Soto E, DeVore G, Sibai BM. Novel Speckle Tracking Analysis Showed Excellent Reproducibility for Size and Shape of the Fetal Heart and Good Reproducibility for Strain and Fractional Shortening. Fetal Diagn Ther 2021; 48:541-550. [PMID: 34515112 DOI: 10.1159/000517625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to evaluate reproducibility and agreement of fetal cardiac shape and deformation using FetalHQ. METHODS Fifty normal fetuses at 20-38 weeks of gestation were evaluated. Two operators independently selected an optimal cardiac cycle using FetalHQ®™software for speckle tracking analysis. Intra- and interobserver correlation coefficient and limits of agreement for cardiac shape and deformation were estimated. RESULTS Global cardiac markers: high correlation (r = 0.98) and agreement (mean difference, standard deviation [MD, SD] 5.07, 75.8) for ventricular area; moderate correlation (r = 0.78) and agreement (MD, SD: 0.016, 0.08) for global sphericity index (SI) and for left ventricle (LV) global strain (r = 0.65; MD, SD: -4.48, 11.9); and low but still significant correlation (r = 0.58) and agreement (MD, SD: -3.77, 12.27) for right ventricle (RV) global strain. For individual ventricular parameters: high correlation for LV ([median r; range] 0.98; 0.93-0.99) and RV (r = 0.98; 0.97-1.0) SI, and for LV (r = 0.92: 0.56-0.99) and RV (r = 0.96; 0.67-0.99) end diastolic diameters; moderate correlation for LV fractional shortening (r = 0.53; 0.87-0.98); and no significant correlation for RV fractional shortening (r = 0.36; 0.32-0.97). Inter- and intraobserver correlation and agreement were similar for all evaluated parameters. CONCLUSION Speckle tracking analysis of the fetal heart provides reliable estimations of global and LV shape and deformation. Low correlation in the RV can be related to anatomical structures such as the moderator band.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin S Huntley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas, Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Edgar Hernandez-Andrade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas, Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eleazar Soto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas, Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gregory DeVore
- Fetal Diagnostic Centers, Pasadena, California, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Baha M Sibai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas, Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, Texas, USA
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