Evaluation of Systolic Function of Left Ventricle

Abstract

The left ventricle (LV) is a complex structure, and understanding functional complexity is crucial while evaluating the systolic function. Systolic function is the predominant determinant of stroke volume and cardiac output and has substantial clinical implications. Internal dimension, volumes, and fractional shortening are routinely used in clinical practice to assess LV systolic function. Ejection fraction (EF) estimation using two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography is ubiquitous. However, the reliability of EF in prognostication and decision among patients with normal to mildly reduced EF is questionable. Therefore, other 2D or three-dimensional (3D) echocardiographic variables and strain measurements are continuously evolving to supplement and complement EF. However, we need to generate sufficient normative data in normal patients and those with various cardiac pathologies to validate and strengthen the clinical utility of strain.