Abstract
Software-based beamforming which utilizes delay and standard beamforming is a signal processing technique that temporarily stores data from each probe element to improve specular reflections to improve the image resolution. We compared a software algorithm which uses delay and standard beamforming with delay and sum beamforming in standard, hardware to evaluate endocardial borders and need for echo contrast. In this prospective study, eligible participants were ≥18years of age referred clinically for transthoracic echocardiograms. A limited study consisting of three views (apical 4, apical 3, and apical 2 chamber) was performed with the software-based beamforming and standard platform. Number and quality of segments visualized were evaluated using a 17-segment model. Quality of segments was graded as 0=not visualized, 1=incompletely visualized, or 2=completely visualized. Overall quality score for each study (0=poor, 1=adequate, 2=good) was reported. The need for contrast was determined by ASE guidelines. A total of 101 patients (mean age 61±16years, males 52%) were enrolled. Mean number of segments visualized in apical 4- (6.28 vs 5.65, P<.001), apical 3- (6.27 vs 5.54, P<.001), and apical 2-chamber views (6.26 vs 5.72 P<.001) was higher with the software vs standard platform. The average overall score for image quality was significantly better for the software platform vs standard (1.4 vs 0.9, P=<.001). With the software platform, 23% were judged as requiring contrast as compared with 45% for the standard platform (P<.001). Delay and standard beamforming in software platform identified more segments with better image quality when compared to the standard high-end platform, decreasing the need for contrast usage.
Published Version
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