Echocardiographic evaluation of ejection fraction: 3DE versus 2DE and M-Mode

Using echocardiography, left ventricular function was evaluated in accordance with the diverse ultrasound methods. M-Mode and two-dimensional methods have some limitations due to the geometric assumptions to calculate the different parameters, which may cause important errors. 3-D imaging can be used for direct calculation of intracavitary volumes and global/regional ejection fraction. In the present review, the first and second scanner's generation of 3D echocardiography are illustrated. The image acquisition and reconstruction were exposed and the advantages and limitations of this technique are also reported. Live 3D echocardiography, which directly and more rapidly provides a free quantification of global and regional LV function, appears to be superior to other versions of real-time 3D imaging. Finally, rapid three-dimensional echocardiography allows the immediate collection of data within a few seconds, making this technique feasible in most clinical scenarios.