[Study of segmental ventricular contraction by the analysis of the radius of curvature]

We have developed a procedure for segmental contraction analysis in the left ventricle based on the study of the radius of local curvature. This method has the advantage of non-necessitating the determination of basal reference values. The problem of optimal homogenisation of the raw date was resolved by developing a method based on a mobile average of 5 points by introducing a ponderation by second derivations. This method allows to describe various types of possible segmental contraction in ischemic cardiopathies and obstructive cardiomyopathies. Among the possible anomalies, inversion of the curvature radius has a particular importance (Laplace's law). If localized, it produces an increase in the parietal constraint with a possible extension of the ischemic process. If more extended, a pressure instability (CMO) ensues, independently of the parietal constraint developed.