The measurement of multidimensional myocardial dynamics using scattered radiation fields.

A new radiographic device, based upon the analysis of scattered radiation fields, has been developed to measure myocardial dynamics. The device consists of an array of detectors arranged to monitor photons scattering from the epicardial surface. Data synthesis permits real-time dynamic displays of the epicardial surface in two and three dimensions. The system has been tested on close-chest canines. Epicardial surface displacements within the closed chest cavity can be measured to 0.1 mm (S.D.). Right or left ventricular surfaces may be monitored on a given scan. Surfaces behind or in front of outer myocardial boundaries within the direct field of view of the detectors are located with equal accuracy. Except for the use of low levels of fluoroscopic x-rays, the procedure is completely noninvasive. Radiation dose levels and component costs for the prototype system are modest. The detector system attaches to a standard fluoroscopic x-ray generator.

Validation of dynamic radiography in the dog and evaluation of ischemic dyssynergy.

If a collimated radiation detector (sodium iodide crystal) and a collimated X-ray source are positioned at right angles, scattered radiation will be sensed and the detector will generate a signal as tissue enters and leaves the "sensitive volume" formed by the intersection of the field of view of the detector and incident beam. This technique, called dynamic radiography, was used to identify and quantify the components of epicardial motion in anesthetized open-chested dogs. The data so obtained were validated by two independent optical methods: biplane cinematography and a technique that measures the shadow cast by the heart using a light beam-cadmium sulfide photocell. Displacement measured by dynamic radiography appeared to be the time integral of the scalar product of the velocity vector and the vector normal to the surface area within the sensitive volume, i.e., that component of displacement of myocardial mass that was perpendicular to the surface of the myocardium. In other words, the dynamic radiographic signal was proportional to the mass of tissue within the sensitive volume. Good agreement in terms of absolute motion, its direction, and phase was noted between predicted dynamic radiographic signals and those observed. Thus validated, this technique was found to be reliable in quantifying motion abnormalities produced by acute coronary ligation.

Dynamic radiography. An evaluation of cardiac motion by the analysis of scattered radiation during fluoroscopy.

A non-invasive technique, utilizing scattered radiation, has been developed to monitor and measure the motion of the epicardial surface during fluoroscopy. A number of dogs were studied using a monitoring device which consists of an X-Ray beam collimator, collimated sodium iodide dectetors and their associated electronics. The detector signals are computer processed to obtain frequency fingerprints of epicardial motion that may, in the future, indicate the condition of the myocardium.