Does automated left ventricular ejection fraction assessment available on handheld ultrasound devices represent improvement in the diagnostic accuracy?

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Purpose To assess the accuracy an algorithm for automated measurement left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) available on handheld ultrasound device (HUD). Methods 112 patients admitted to cardiology department, who were referred conventional echocardiographic examination, underwent additional assessment performed with HUD (Vscan Extend, GE Vingmed Ultrasound, Horten, Norway). In each case 4 – chamber apical view was obtained and LVEF calculated by means LVivo software. Imaging quality assessed in a 4-grade scale. Subsequently, during examination use stationary echocardiograph three-dimensional (3D) recorded. Results Ultimately 96 (53 men, mean age 63 ± 11) enrolled into study group remaining 16 cases (14%) 3D image not sufficient allow calculation LVEF. software unsuccessful calculating all these 20 patients, remained due satisfactory quality. The images acquired as optimal 25 (26%) good 37 (39%), acceptable 24 (25%), poor 10 (10%). average value 46%±14 LVQ measurements 48%±14 using correlation coefficient between values two methods r = 0,92; (P < 0,0001). Using paired samples t-test we found that difference techniques significant (mean 4,5± 3,4%; P 0,35). EF is based single this reason have assumed differences can be larger regional wall motion abnormalities, whom derived from different views significantly vary. For history myocardial infarction (40pts, 42%) analysed separately also statistically 6,1± 3,3%; P= 0,14). equalled 0,78; Conclusion despite its limitations capable accurate when are at least imaging Such expanded capabilities HUDs potentially lead overall improvements diagnostic ultrasonographic examinations, particularly hands non-expert echocardiographers.