The Echocardiographic Assessment of Left Ventricular Function and Dimensions

Accurate assessment of left ventricular size and function is essential in pediatric cardiology practice, but techniques are often extrapolated from adults without proper validation. Traditionally, fractional shortening and ejection fraction have been used to evaluate systolic function, but they have limitations in patients with congenital heart disease. Newer methods show promise, but pediatric experience is limited. Most functional indices were developed for assessment of a normal left ventricle, so the spectrum of congenital heart defects along with growth and hemodynamic changes complicate their use. This chapter provides readers with a comprehensive yet practical systematic approach to evaluating left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, with the goal of improving care for patients with congenital heart disease.