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Biventricular function during postextrasystolic potentiation in man. A study using list-mode radionuclide
J F Polak1, G S Hirsowitz, B L Holman
1Radiology Department, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115.
Investigative Radiology
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Postextrasystolic potentiation during ventricular ectopy enhances left ventricular ejection fraction by improving emptying. Right ventricular ejection fraction increases are linked to improved ventricular filling.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Physiology
Background:
- Spontaneous ventricular ectopy can influence cardiac function.
- Postextrasystolic potentiation (PESP) is a known phenomenon affecting myocardial contractility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of PESP during spontaneous ventricular ectopy on left and right ventricular function.
- To differentiate the mechanisms contributing to ejection fraction changes in both ventricles.
Main Methods:
- List-mode radionuclide ventriculography was employed.
- 12 patients with spontaneous ventricular ectopy were studied.
Main Results:
- Left ventricular ejection fraction significantly increased (+11.0%), with decreased end-systolic volumes and increased end-diastolic volumes.
- Right ventricular ejection fraction increased in 8/12 patients (+3.3%), with significant increases in end-diastolic volumes but minimal changes in end-systolic volumes.
Conclusions:
- In spontaneous ventricular ectopy, increased left ventricular ejection fraction is associated with improved ventricular emptying.
- Increased right ventricular ejection fraction in this context reflects enhanced ventricular filling.