Left ventricular systolic function

Chapter 6 is subdivided into three sections: global LV systolic function, regional LV systolic function, and cardiomyopathies. In Section 1, commonly used indices of global systolic function, such as fractional area change and ejection fraction, are reviewed, along with their limitations related to oesophageal imaging. The relationship between stroke volume and ejection fraction is explored. Newer techniques such as quantitative 3D imaging and strain-rate imaging are described. In Section 2, the causes of regional systolic dysfunction are reviewed, along with the different aetiologies of real and apparent segmental wall motion abnormalities. Complications of myocardial infarction such as mitral regurgitation, true and false LV aneurysms, and ventricular septal rupture are also dealt with in this section. Section 3 provides an overview of the echocardiographic findings associated with various cardiomyopathies: dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive, acute myocarditis, LV non-compaction, and Takotsubo.