Dynamic 3D reconstruction of the normal human mitral valve from 2D echocardiographic scans

A technique for three-dimensional echocardiographic reconstruction is developed and used to study the dynamic changes in the shape of the mitral valve throughout the cardiac cycle in humans. An acoustic locating system continuously records the spatial location of images during scans of the valve with a conventional two-dimensional system. Images are traced and combined in their correct spatial and temporal locations and dynamically displayed on an interactive graphics system. The reconstructions clearly illustrate leaflet motion with opening and closing along the line of coaptation. Also, the annulus expands circumferentially during mid- to late-systole, paralleling atrial expansion. Both leaflets and annulus move toward the apex with systolic contraction. This technique should provide information to enhance the understanding of normal and abnormal valve function such as annular shape changes as they relate to the design of annuloplasty devices and dynamic leaflet-annular relationships as they relate to the diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse