Assessment of left ventricular structure and function by cross sectional echocardiography

Cross sectional echocardiography can be used to give semiquantitative estimates of ventricular volumes and ejection fraction which are very valuable in detecting the severe abnormalities seen clinically. The technique has also been widely used to study regional abnormalities of wall motion. However, with a frame rate of 30 s-1 and lateral resolution of 3-4 mm critical analysis of disturbances of timing is not possible, so the method should be used in conjunction with M-mode and Doppler techniques. In spite of physical limitations, based on the underlying mechanisms of image generation, its advantages of real time application and noninvasive nature, its ability to demonstrate myocardial thickness as well as echo intensity, and its relative cheapness have made cross sectional echocardiography a major tool in documenting abnormalities of left ventricular function occurring in disease.