[Evaluation of diastolic function in patients with constrictive pericarditis before and after pericardectomy]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Cardiovascular Surgery

Background:

• Constrictive pericarditis significantly impairs cardiac function.
• Diastolic dysfunction is a key feature of constrictive pericarditis.
• Accurate assessment of diastolic function is crucial for treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate diastolic function in constrictive pericarditis using velocity-encoded flow measurements.
• To assess the impact of pericardectomy on diastolic function.
• To determine the feasibility and value of velocity-encoded flow imaging in this patient group.

Main Methods:

• Velocity-encoded flow measurements were performed at atrioventricular valves in nine constrictive pericarditis patients.
• Diastolic function was assessed by measuring E and A wave amplitudes and calculating E/A ratios.
• Mid-diastolic flow, indicative of dysfunction, was registered.

Main Results:

• Pre-pericardectomy, significant diastolic dysfunction (grades I-III) was observed at both mitral and tricuspid valves.
• Mid-diastolic flow was detected in two patients, suggesting impaired relaxation.
• Post-pericardectomy, improvement in diastolic function was noted in five patients at the mitral valve and two at the tricuspid valve.

Conclusions:

• Velocity-encoded flow measurements are a feasible and valuable tool for assessing diastolic function in constrictive pericarditis.
• This imaging technique provides pre- and post-operative insights into diastolic function.
• The findings support the use of velocity-encoded flow imaging in managing constrictive pericarditis.