Three-dimensional Volumetric Measurement of the Aortic Root Compared to Standard Two-dimensional Measurements Using Cardiac Computed Tomography.

INTRODUCTION: Two-dimensional measurements are self-evidently limited when seeking accurately to represent the three-dimensional complexity of the aortic root. Volumetric measurement, therefore, seems an ideal alternative for a more accurate assessment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 123 individuals undergoing cardiac computed tomography. We measured the dimensions of the sinuses of Valsalva using routine multi-planar short axis imaging. Three conventional two-dimensional methods were applied to measure the dimensions of the sinuses. These involved bisecting center of sinus-to-center of interleaflet triangle measures, along with center of sinus-to-center of sinus, and largest sinus-to-sinus measurements. We then quantified the volumes of the root using the volume-rendering method. RESULTS: The mean dimensions of the sinuses were significantly greater when measured using the largest sinus-to-sinus method as opposed to center of sinus-to-center of interleaflet triangle and center of sinus-to-center of sinus methods (33.6 +/- 3.6 mm vs. 31.1 +/- 3.1 mm and 30.9 +/- 3.3 mm, p < 0.0001). The mean root volume of 13.6 +/- 4.2 mL showed the strongest correlation with the mean dimensions of the sinuses of Valsalva measured using the bisecting method (R(2) = 0.8401, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: By using two- and three-dimensional measurements, we have provided average data for the structurally normal aortic root. The differences and correlations encountered should be noted when evaluating and following changes in the diseased root. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.