Three-dimensional myocardial and ventricular shape: a surface representation

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Abstract
To date, a detailed 3-dimensional (3D) analysis of cardiac shape and size was not available. A method was developed for such an analysis using sectioned hearts and a computer-based 3D description of the epi- and endocardial surfaces of the left and right ventricles (LV and RV) and the interventricular septum. The accuracy of this analysis as a function of section thickness (hs) was evaluated and reference axes for the LV, RV and myocardium were determined in 8 canine hearts. After diastolic arrest, the RV, LV and their atria were fixed in formaldehyde solution at pressures of 6 and 12 cm H2O, respectively. The hearts were then cast (plastic or gelatin) and sectioned, and the surfaces were digitized. Accurate 3D computer reconstructions and computed volumes of the LV, RV and myocardium were obtained when hs .ltoreq. 5 mm. The apex-to-base circumference and cross-sectional area relations could be approximated provided hs < 10 mm. The section centers of gravity for the LV, RV and myocardium defined 3 distinct vertical lines. An accurate description of 3D configuration is obtainable by a 5 mm section thickness. The centers of gravity provide a set of geometrical references for the study of shape in normal and diseased hearts.

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