Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 2, 2026

Quantification of Global Diastolic Function by Kinematic Modeling-based Analysis of Transmitral Flow via the Parametrized Diastolic Filling Formalism
11:04

Quantification of Global Diastolic Function by Kinematic Modeling-based Analysis of Transmitral Flow via the Parametrized Diastolic Filling Formalism

Published on: September 1, 2014

How should we assess diastolic function in hypertension?

L Bojö1, B Wandt, S Haaga

  • 1Department of Clinical Physiology, Central Hospital, Karlstad, Sweden.

Scandinavian Cardiovascular Journal : SCJ
|September 13, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Maximal longitudinal LV relaxation velocity (RVm) is the most effective index for assessing diastolic function in hypertensive patients with normal systolic function, showing a clearer distinction compared to E/A ratio and atrial to total mitral annulus motion (AC).

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiovascular Physiology
  • Echocardiography

Background:

  • Hypertension is a common condition that can lead to diastolic dysfunction.
  • Assessing diastolic function is crucial for managing cardiovascular risk.
  • Existing indices for diastolic function assessment show limitations in differentiating hypertensive patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the effectiveness of three echocardiographic indices of diastolic left ventricular (LV) function.
  • To identify the most suitable index for evaluating diastolic LV function in hypertensive patients with preserved systolic function.

Main Methods:

  • Echocardiographic assessment of diastolic LV function using E/A ratio, atrial to total mitral annulus motion (AC), and maximal longitudinal LV relaxation velocity (RVm).
  • Study included 19 hypertensive patients with normal systolic function and 20 healthy controls.
  • Pulsed Doppler and M-mode recordings from apical views were utilized.

Main Results:

  • All three indices (E/A ratio, AC, RVm) indicated impaired diastolic function in hypertensive patients compared to controls.
  • E/A ratio and AC showed significant overlap between hypertensive patients and controls.
  • RVm demonstrated a highly significant difference between groups with minimal overlap, suggesting superior discriminatory power.

Conclusions:

  • Maximal longitudinal LV relaxation velocity (RVm) appears to be the most appropriate index for assessing diastolic function in hypertensive patients with normal systolic function.
  • RVm offers better differentiation of diastolic dysfunction in this patient population compared to E/A ratio and AC.
Abstract

More Related Videos

A Pacing-Controlled Procedure for the Assessment of Heart Rate-Dependent Diastolic Functions in Murine Heart Failure Models07:49

A Pacing-Controlled Procedure for the Assessment of Heart Rate-Dependent Diastolic Functions in Murine Heart Failure Models

Published on: July 21, 2023

Pulsed Wave Doppler Assessment of Diastolic Dysfunction in the ZSF-1 Rat Model of Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Left Heart Disease08:57

Pulsed Wave Doppler Assessment of Diastolic Dysfunction in the ZSF-1 Rat Model of Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Left Heart Disease

Published on: May 22, 2026

Related Concept Videos

Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)01:15

Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)

This procedural guide systematically measures blood pressure using an oscillometric digital sphygmomanometer, emphasizing accuracy, patient safety, and comfort.
Prepare for the Procedure:
Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(two-step method)01:23

Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(two-step method)

Measuring blood pressure is a fundamental skill in healthcare that aids in diagnosing and monitoring hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. An aneroid sphygmomanometer, commonly used in clinical settings, offers a manual and precise method for blood pressure measurement. The technique for using this instrument involves specific steps that must be carefully executed to ensure accuracy. The following detailed description outlines a two-step technique for assessing blood pressure using...
Assessing Blood pressure using a doppler ultrasound01:19

Assessing Blood pressure using a doppler ultrasound

To obtain accurate blood pressure measurements in clinical settings, especially when traditional methods are insufficient, healthcare professionals utilize the Doppler ultrasound technique. This method uses high-frequency sound waves to detect blood flow within the arteries, which is crucial for patients with conditions that complicate circulatory system assessment.
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Doppler Ultrasound Blood Pressure Assessment:
Preparation of Equipment:
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure01:28

Special considerations while measuring blood pressure

When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Measurement of Blood Pressure01:17

Measurement of Blood Pressure

Assessing blood pressure is a standard procedure executed in virtually all medical environments. The method utilized today was established over a hundred years ago by an innovative Russian doctor, Dr. Nikolai Korotkoff. The soft ticking noise, known as Korotkoff sounds, heard while taking blood pressure readings results from turbulent blood flow within the vessels. The apparatus required for this procedure includes a sphygmomanometer, a blood pressure cuff attached to a gauge, and a stethoscope.
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:30

Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Hypertension is asymptomatic and also referred to as the "silent killer" until it progresses to a severe stage or causes target organ disease. Patients may experience symptoms stemming from the strain on blood vessels and tissues in various organs or the heart's increased workload.Physical exams might show no abnormalities other than high blood pressure. Signs of vascular damage, when present, correspond to the organs supplied by the affected vessels, leading to target organ damage. For...