[Volume and regional contraction of the left ventricle studied with venous injection in subtraction angiography]

The end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, the left ventricular ejection fraction, and segmental contraction of the left ventricle (5 areas) were determined at rest in 31 patients using two methods: conventional cineventriculography (as reference) and digital subtraction angiography by venous injection (the inferior vena cava).

the volumes and ejection fraction obtained by digital subtraction angiography were reliable, though slightly less accurate than conventional ventriculography. Quantification of segmental contraction was satisfactory in the apical, anterolateral, and anteroinferior portions. It was less satisfactory in the posteroinferior portion with questionable reliability in the diaphragmatic portion. Qualitative dynamic assessment of contraction was satisfactory in most patients.