The relevance of left ventricular bands

Left ventricular bands (LVBs) were first described almost a century ago but were largely ignored until their 'rediscovery' by echocardiography. Renewed interest in LVBs and the demonstration of their association with clinical abnormalities have resulted in attempts to establish their causal relationship with various phenomena, especially the vibratory systolic murmur and premature ventricular contractions. Published articles on LVBs are reviewed with specific reference to nomenclature, embryological development, histological features, prevalence, demonstration in vivo and at autopsy, and alleged clinical importance. Current views on LVBs are evaluated and future research directions are suggested.