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Defining left ventricular segmental and global function by echocardiographic intraventricular contrast flow patterns
S Thanigaraj1, R Chugh, K B Schechtman
1Cardiovascular Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA. hari@cardsfellow.wustl.edu
The American Journal of Cardiology
|November 15, 2000
Summary
Contrast echocardiography reveals distinct left ventricular (LV) flow patterns. Pattern A indicates normal LV function, while Pattern B suggests wall motion abnormalities, enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Echocardiography
Background:
- Contrast echocardiography enhances visualization of the left ventricular (LV) endocardial border.
- Intracavitary contrast flow patterns within the LV may correlate with myocardial wall motion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between left ventricular intracavitary contrast flow patterns and myocardial wall motion.
- To determine if contrast flow patterns can aid in assessing global and segmental LV function.
Main Methods:
- Reviewed contrast-enhanced echocardiograms from 348 patients.
- Defined two intracavitary contrast flow patterns (A: swift, homogeneous; B: protracted, swirling) from apical views.
- Correlated flow patterns with LV segmental and global function assessments.
Main Results:
- 91% of patients with pattern A had normal LV segmental function.
- 102 of 103 patients with pattern B had at least one wall motion abnormality (p <0.0001).
- Pattern A was associated with normal global LV function in 93% of cases, while pattern B indicated LV dysfunction in 83% (p <0.0001).
Conclusions:
- Left ventricular intracavitary contrast flow patterns provide valuable complementary information for assessing LV function.
- Distinct flow patterns observed during contrast echocardiography correlate strongly with normal or abnormal myocardial wall motion.