A systematic analysis of the feasibility of four‐dimensional ultrasound imaging using spatiotemporal image correlation in routine fetal echocardiography

• DOI: 10.1002/uog.5351
• Publication Date: 2008-05-27T10:28:32Z
• Authors: L. B. Uittenbogaard; M. C. Haak; M. D. Spreeuwenberg; J. M. G. Van Vugt
• Keywords: Sonographer; Cardiac Imaging

To investigate the feasibility of incorporating spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) into a tertiary fetal echocardiography program.During study period all pregnant women fitting our inclusion criteria were enrolled consecutively. Four sonographers participated in study, one whom had substantial previous experience STIC volume acquisition and three did not. volumes acquired within time slot allocated for usual examination attempts recorded. assessed on conditions, quality (as defined by checklist cardiac structures that could be visualized), rendering abilities. Furthermore, possible learning effects influence with studied.STIC was successful 75.7% (112/148) cases which it attempted. The more experienced sonographer higher success rate (experienced vs. less experienced, 88.4% 70.5%, P = 0.02). Of analyzed volumes, 64.8% high or sufficient quality. ability correlated strongly conditions. High-quality successfully rendered intracardiac septa 84.6% cases. coronal atrioventricular plane 12/26 (46.2%).This shows incorporation daily practice program is feasible. Sonographers do not have to specifically three- four-dimensional ultrasound imaging acquire high-quality volumes. For subsequent analysis, correct conditions are major importance. Finally, results demonstrate as susceptible conventional two-dimensional individual variations limitations scanning windows.