Evaluation of Left Atrial Size and Pressure as It Relates to Left Ventricle Diastolic Measurements in Patients With Left Ventricle Hypertrophy

• Published in: Journal of diagnostic medical sonography 2003-03, Vol.19 (2), p.73-79
• Main Authors: Valentine, April Lynn, Pope, Jeff, Read, Terry
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 8756-4793; 1552-5430
• DOI: 10.1177/8756479303251118

The purpose of this prospective study was to determine whether left atrial size, pressure, and ejection fraction are useful in diagnosing patients with left ventricle (LV) diastolic dysfunction through noninvasive means. Mitral valve and pulmonary vein Doppler measurements are used currently to diagnose LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). The left atrium (LA) influences these Doppler measurements. By coordinating Doppler and LA values, an understanding of the LA could help with LVDD patients. Thirty-four patients (15 men, 19 women; mean age 65.6 ± 14 years) were evaluated by echocardiography. M-mode of the left ventricle and mitral flow E/A ratio were used in determining LV diastolic dysfunction. Apical four- and two-chambers were measured to find left atrial volume and area. Left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF) was calculated as the percentage of blood expelled in a cycle. LA pressure evaluated through pulmonary wedge pressure was related to E/A wave velocity ratio (P = 1.11E- 0 7, r = .77). Maximum left atrial volume was significant in patients with mild LVH measurements (P = .03, r = .53) and patients with E/A wave velocity ratio < 1.0 (P = .02, r = .65). While LA pressure and maximum left atrial volumes prove to be useful in evaluating patients with LV diastolic dysfunction throughout this study, LAEF is not significant when correlated with these patients.