Value of segmental myocardial strain by 2-dimensional strain echocardiography for assessment of scar area induced in a rat model of myocardial infarction.

Objectives: Two-dimensional strain echocardiography (2DSE) technique has enabled accurate quantification of regional myocardial function. This experimental study was aimed to investigate the value of 2DSE in detection of segmental regional myocardial dysfunction induced by fibrosis following myocardial infarction in a small animal (rat) model.

Methods: A rat model of myocardial infarction was established by ligation of the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery in 17 SD rats.