Accuracy and precision of regional multiharmonic Fourier analysis of gated blood-pool images.

In order to estimate the precision and accuracy of parameters derived from segmental multiharmonic Fourier analysis of gated blood-pool images, a Monte Carlo computer noise simulation was tested on five sample regional time-activity curves. The first three Fourier harmonics were retained and the precision and accuracy of parameters of ventricular function were calculated, varying the ejection fraction, segment size, and framing rate. Precision improved with higher ejection fraction, higher counts per frame, or higher framing rate. There was no change in precision as the framing rate changed at fixed total counts. Accuracy changed little with changing framing rate. Thus, for segmental analysis there is no advantage to using a higher framing rate. Regions five or more pixels in size are recommended for reliable results. This study provides useful information for the optimization of acquisition and processing conditions for regional gated blood-pool analysis.