Evaluation of the left ventricular function in aortic regurgitation by echocardiography and indicator dilution method

The left ventricular function and severity of LV volume overload were assessed in 30 patients with aortic regurgitation by a combined use of echocardiography and indicator dilution method. With decreasing functional capacity of patients, there tended to be greater increase in EDV, and decreases in CO, EF, Vcf, and BAP(DN)/ESV, and shift of LV function curve downward and to the right, reflecting LV myocardial dysfunction. There was a substantial correlation between functional capacity and the severity of regurgitation as well as LV myocardial function, suggesting the possibility that clinical symptoms may depend upon both the myocardial function and severity of aortic regurgitation. In contrast with many patients with AR of functional class I or II, who had relatively normal LV function, the patients of class III consistently showed substantial LV myocardial dysfunction. After sublingual administration of ISDN, BAP lowered, EDV and RF decreased. Lowering of BAP and RF were more prominent in class III than in class I. It has been proved that a combined use of echocardiography and indicator dilution method is of value in assessing the left ventricular function and regurgitant fraction in patients with aortic regurgitation, allowing a better understanding of the disease process and the potential for recognizing patients who may require early valve replacement.