Left ventricular non-compaction in heart failure: contemporary perspective on diagnostic challenges and treatment

Oliviana Geavlete1,2, Carsten Tschöpe3,4, Christiane E Angermann5,6

  • 1Cardiac Care Unit, Emergency Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Prof. Dr. C.C. Iliescu, Bucharest, Romania. oliviana_m@yahoo.com.

Heart Failure Reviews
|June 19, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) and left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVHT) are debated. Prognosis in heart failure depends on ventricular function, not trabeculation extent.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiovascular Imaging
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) is a debated cardiomyopathy phenotype.
  • Left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVHT) in healthy individuals challenges LVNC as a distinct entity.
  • Distinguishing adaptive trabeculation from cardiomyopathic LVNC is critical in heart failure (HF) patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Review current evidence on LVHT and LVNC pathophysiology, imaging, genetics, and clinical implications in HF.
  • Propose a diagnostic approach for improved interpretation, risk stratification, and management.
  • Clarify the prognostic determinants in patients with LVNC/LVHT.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review focusing on HF-centered perspectives.
  • Integration of echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and genetic testing.
  • Analysis of prognostic factors beyond trabeculation extent.

Main Results:

  • LVHT is increasingly recognized in physiological states, blurring the lines with LVNC.
  • A pragmatic diagnostic approach can enhance clinical decision-making.
  • Prognosis is primarily linked to ventricular function, myocardial substrate, and arrhythmic burden.

Conclusions:

  • The distinction between adaptive LVHT and pathological LVNC requires careful evaluation.
  • Integrated imaging and genetic testing aid in accurate diagnosis and risk assessment.
  • Ventricular function and arrhythmic burden are key prognostic indicators in LVNC/LVHT.

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