Experience of a Single Center in the Diagnosis and Classification of Cases of Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Abstract

Objectives: To analyse the clinical profile of consecutive cases of Left Ventricular Non Compaction (LVNC) with particular interest in non-compacted segments valuation. Methods: There were 18,000 patients seen from 2007 to 2010, with a complete evaluation including family history and personal cardiac history, clinical examination and electrocardiography. Diagnosis was based on three published definitions. Results: The diagnosis of LVNC was placed in 1.4% of cases. Clinical and echocardiographic data for the 250 cases of LVNC are presented. Trabecular meshwork was observed predominantly at the apex (91.6%), in the lateral and inferior wall (40.4% and 38.0% respectively), and less frequently in the posterior and anterior wall (21.6% and 9.2% respectively). Conclusions: This study suggests that LVNC is a form of cardiomyopathy with higher prevalence and relatively better prognosis than previously reported.