FUNCTONAL IMPORTANCE OF LONG AXIS DYNAMICS OF THE HUMAN LEFT VENTRICLE AND ITS APPLICATIONS IN DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY

Abstract

This work aimed at the evaluation ofthe role of long axis echocardiographic methods for the determination of left ventricular function in dilated cardiomyopathy. This study included thitty five patients with clinical, radiological and echocardiographic evidence of dilated cardiomyopathy (Gp I) Ten healthy subjects, age and sex matched as a control group (Gp II). Every person in the study was subjected to: 1 . Careful history taking. 2. Full clinical examination. 3. Plain X-ray chest PA view. 4. Complete 2-D and M-mode echo Doppler study to measure: a) Left ventricular end diastolic dimension (LVEDD). b) Left ventricular end systolic dimension (LVESD). c) Fraction shortening (F.S.), peak rate of fall of mmor ax1s. d) Time interval from the Q-wave to the onset of long axis shortening. e) Time interval from the Q-wave to the minimum of long axis sh01tening. 1) Time interval from the Q-wave to the onset of minor axts shottening.