P1.31 Determining Pulse Wave Velocity Using MRI: A Comparison and Repeatability of Results Using Seven Transit Time Algorithms

• Published in: Artery research Vol. 2; no. 3; p. 99
• Main Authors: Butlin, M., Hickson, S., Graves, M. J., McEniery, C. M., Avolio, A. P., Wilkinson, I. B.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dordrecht Springer Netherlands 01.08.2008; Springer Nature B.V; BMC
• Subjects: Abstract; Algorithms
• ISSN: 1872-9312; 1876-4401; 1876-4401
• DOI: 10.1016/j.artres.2008.08.338

Aim MRI provides a non-invasive method for assessing segmental aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV). However, the best mathematical algorithm for transit time calculation using MRI flow waves is unclear. Methods 7 different algorithms were applied to aortic flow waveforms measured by MRI (10 subjects, 36±7 years, 4 male). Two measurements were recorded in each subject on different days for repeatability analysis. PWV was calculated between 5 sites along the aorta. Outlier PWV results were classed as a “failed” measurement and the success rate calculated. Bland-Altman plots were constructed for each algorithm, and repeatability calculated. Agreement between different methods was calculated using repeated measures analysis. Results The method of intersecting lines of fit during late diastole and early systole had the highest success rate followed by the Fourier analysis phase-slope method (99%; 98% respectively). Repeatability of measurement was highest using the phase-slope method followed by the method of intersecting lines (standard deviation 1.9; 2.2 m/s respectively). Methods of deviation of a systolic line of fit, maximum of second derivative, intersecting lines of fit, and the corner detection algorithm had the highest agreement, corrected for repeatability (corrected standard deviation range 1.8-1.9 m/s). Conclusions Whilst agreement between several PWV algorithms was high, no one algorithm was better in all categories. The intersection of lines of fit method was most robust. The phase-slope method showed the greatest repeatability. These findings are important in aPWV measurement, and for reliable and accurate PWV measurement in general.