Comparison of the left ventricular volume using the Ahlkerg and Dodge methods

Single plane cine left ventriculography was performed in 24 patients, 12 with normal and 12 with abnormal ventricular shapes. End diastolic and systolic volume and ejection fractions were calculated by two methods (Ahlberg and Dodge). The volumes and ejection fraction from either method were not significantly different. If calculated manually, the Ahlberg method took ten times longer than the Dodge method. At present some steps are difficult but a computer can perform the measurements and calculations, and print the results for ventricular areas.