Factors Influencing the Use of 3D Echocardiography for LVEF Assessment in Routine Clinical Practice

Abstract

Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is a critical parameter in the evaluation and management of various cardiac conditions, including heart failure, myocardial infarction, and valvular diseases. While two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography has traditionally been the standard method for assessing LVEF, three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography offers significant advantages in terms of accuracy and reproducibility. However, despite these benefits, the integration of 3D echocardiography into routine clinical practice remains inconsistent. This study explores the multifactorial influences governing the adoption of 3D echocardiography for LVEF evaluation. Through a mixed-method approach, including clinical surveys, retrospective analysis of imaging usage data, and semi-structured interviews with cardiologists, this research identifies technological, institutional, educational, and patient-related factors that affect the utilization of 3D imaging. The findings highlight key barriers and enablers and propose strategies to enhance the routine implementation of this advanced modality.