Factors Influencing 3D Echocardiographic Reporting of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in Clinical Practice

Abstract

Three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) has revolutionized the assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), offering improved accuracy and reproducibility compared to two-dimensional methods. Despite its advantages, numerous factors influence the reliability and consistency of 3D echocardiographic reporting in clinical practice. These factors include patient-specific characteristics, operator expertise, image acquisition techniques, software variability, and the impact of physiological conditions such as heart rate variability. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of these determinants, supported by experimental validation and statistical analysis. We discuss how technological advancements in image processing, artificial intelligence integration, and automated contour detection have sought to mitigate inconsistencies. Our experimental study assesses interobserver variability and quantifies discrepancies introduced by different acquisition methods. Results indicate that while 3DE significantly improves LVEF assessment, certain limitations persist, necessitating continuous refinement in training protocols and software standardization. The findings underscore the need for optimized imaging protocols and enhanced automation to achieve greater precision in LVEF quantification in routine clinical settings.