Detection of left ventricle systolic dysfunction from shape deformity.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Coronary artery disease is the primary cause of left ventricular systolic dysfunction, leading to impaired heart contractility and shape.
• Non-ischemic cardiomyopathies, both inherited and sporadic, also contribute to systolic dysfunction.
• Left ventricular dysfunction significantly impacts cardiac function, wall motion, and cavity dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze 2D echocardiograms for quantifying left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
• To investigate changes in left ventricular shape and function using Sphericity Index (SI) and Normalized Eccentricity Index (NEI).
• To differentiate between normal and dysfunctional left ventricles based on echocardiographic parameters.

Main Methods:

• Acquisition of 2D echocardiogram apical views (two and four chamber) from normal and systolic dysfunction subjects.
• Image pre-processing and fuzzy system-based segmentation of the left ventricle.
• Measurement of ventricular volumes, perimeter, and axis lengths to calculate SI and NEI.

Main Results:

• Systolic dysfunction is characterized by a shortened diastolic phase and non-uniform volume variation.
• Reduced variation (<0.5 cm) in long or short axis length indicates akinesis in systolic dysfunction.
• Systolic dysfunction shows SI values less than 2 and distinct NEI plot patterns compared to normal LVEF (>45%) subjects.

Conclusions:

• Echocardiographic analysis of left ventricular shape indices (SI and NEI) can effectively identify systolic dysfunction.
• Quantitative assessment of ventricular dynamics provides insights into the severity and nature of cardiac dysfunction.
• These imaging biomarkers offer potential for improved diagnosis and monitoring of heart conditions.