[The effect of postural changes on functional characteristics of the left ventricle in nonpregnant women]

To evaluate the potential influence of positional changes on left ventricular performance and some hemodynamic parameters the systolic time intervals were measured in 90 healthy women aged 19 to 40 years. It was observed the prolongation of total electromechanical systole and left ventricular ejection time, while the preejection period was shortened in left lateral position. These changes were in accordance with significant decrease in systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure in the same position. Heart rate, calculated stroke volume, cardiac output and ejection fraction did not alter with positional changes.