Correlation of Automated Function Imaging (AFI) to Conventional Strain Analyses of Regional and Global Right Ventricular Function

Background: Automated function imaging is a software tool available to facilitate the efficiency of workflow when analyzing left ventricular strain. In this study, automated function imaging was compared with a conventional approach for the analysis of right ventricular strain in normal and pressure-overloaded right ventricles. Methods: Twelve pigs were subjected to graded acute right ventricular systolic pressure overload. Intraclass and interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) with 95% confidence intervals were used for statistical evaluation, with grading based on the kappa statistic as follows: ICC >0.75 = excellent, 0.4 to 0.75 = good, and <0.40 = poor. Results: Intraobserver and interobserver variability for both regional and global strains consistently ranged from good to excellent (ICC, 0.50-0.99), with good agreement between the conventional and automated methods. Conclusion: Automated function imaging correlates well with conventional strain analysis of the right ventricle. Automated function imaging is a practical tool for measuring regional and global longitudinal strain in both normal and pressure-overloaded right ventricles. (J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2009; 22: 1031-9.)