Fast frame rate 2D cardiac deformation imaging based on RF data: What do we gain?

Fast acquisition sequences enable >200Hz 2D cardiac B-mode imaging with little compromise in image quality. Fast imaging minimizes frame to frame decorrelation, enabling RF-based tracking for enhanced signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in motion and deformation imaging. Our objective was to evaluate the performance and hypothesize on the clinical usefulness of Fast RF-based Tracking (FRFT) in comparison with the established modalities of Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) and image-based speckle tracking (ST) at conventional frame rates. FRFT enables visualizing the mechanical waves propagating through the myocardium during valve closure. Improved tracking SNR promises a modality confidently displaying 2D regional strain rate. Further clutter suppression is required to improve success rate in all walls.