A virtual environment for the evaluation, validation and optimization of strain and strain rate imaging

In this study, a virtual environment for the further development of ultrasound strain and strain rate imaging of the heart is proposed. On the one hand, the environment is based on an analytic model describing the motion and deformation of the normal heart in a realistic manner. On the other hand, a simulator for ultrasonic imaging based on physical models of wave propagation is used to generate virtual images of this model. In this way, strain and strain rate values (virtually) measured using ultrasound can be compared to the true values. As a single parameter can be changed at a time, this approach should enable a better understanding of the influence of several physiologic, acquisition and post-processing parameters on the quality of the strain and strain rate estimates. It should thus be a useful tool for the evaluation, validation and optimization of cardiac strain and strain rate imaging.