Can power motion imaging mode combined with contrast agent assess myocardial contraction and perfusion? In vitro and in vivo studies

J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 1999 Nov;12(11):941-50. doi: 10.1016/s0894-7317(99)70147-1.

Abstract

Power motion imaging (PMI) is a new Doppler imaging technology that can enhance contrast agent visualization. We hypothesized that PMI combined with Albunex injection (CPMI) could provide new insights into myocardial contractility and perfusion. In a first step, PMI signal was studied with an in vitro phantom. In a second step, PMI signal was studied in 10 rabbits at different workloads. In a third step, 10 rabbits were studied before and after ischemia produced by coronary ligation and finally during reperfusion. During the latter protocol, epicardial echocardiography analyzed by PMI and fundamental mode was performed before and after Albunex injection. PMI signal was well correlated with phantom velocity. PMI signal and myocardial wall thickening were well correlated, particularly in the septal area. On the coronary occlusion model, ischemia was associated with a significant decrease in PMI and CPMI signals, whereas reperfusion was associated with a significant decrease in PMI signals only, indicating stunning. We conclude that PMI combined with CPMI is a powerful tool to assess myocardial contractility and perfusion.

MeSH terms

  • Albumins / administration & dosage*
  • Animals
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage*
  • Coronary Circulation / physiology*
  • Echocardiography
  • Echocardiography, Doppler / methods*
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Linear Models
  • Myocardial Contraction / physiology*
  • Myocardial Ischemia / diagnostic imaging
  • Myocardial Ischemia / physiopathology
  • Myocardial Reperfusion
  • Phantoms, Imaging
  • Rabbits
  • Reproducibility of Results

Substances

  • Albumins
  • Albunex
  • Contrast Media