Evaluation of right ventricular systolic function pre-and post-operation in patients with tetralogy of Fallot by real time three dimensional echocardiography

Objective To evaluate right ventricular systolic function pre-and post-operation in patients with tetralogy of Fallot by real time three dimensional echocardiography (RT-3DE) , and to determine its clinical value. Methods Thirty patient with tetralogy of Fallot confirmed by two dimensional echocardiography (2DE), right ventricular full imaging was acquired by RT-3DE. Right ventricular end diastolic volume (RVEDV) and end systolic volume (RVESV) were outlined by the analysis software of RT-3DE; RV ejection fraction (EF) was calculated. RVEDV, RVESV, RVEF were compared pre-operation, 12 d and 3 months after operation. Results RVEF was lower than 50% in 30% patients with TOF pre-operation. Post-operation RVESV, RVESV increased while RVEF decreased compared with pre-operation. Pulmonary branch stenosis still existed in 21 patients after operation with 2DE; Pulmonary regurgitation existed in all patients. Conclusion Real time three dimensional echocardiography could be used as a accurately, noninvasively method to determine right ventricular volume and function of TOF patients. After operation RV function in patients with TOF decreases compared with that before operation and pulmonary branch stenosis and pulmonary regurgitation may be part of the reasons.