Left ventricular strain in neonates using 2-dimensional speckle tracking: Normal range and relation with bi-plan ejection fraction.

Objectives: Echocardiographic assessment of Left ventricular systolic function is traditionally being performed by estimation of fractional shortening (FS) and ejection fraction (EF). Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is a promising tool for assessment of myocardial function. The aim of this study is to evaluate the global longitudinal strain (GLS) using 2D-STE in healthy neonates to establish normal reference ranges.

Mid-Term Outcome of Left Ventricle Reverse Remodeling After Atrial Septal Defect Closure: A Comparison Between Surgical and Device Groups.

Right ventricular (RV) volume overload occurs in patients with significant atrial septal defect (ASD II) shunts, which can impair left ventricle (LV) filling, thus decreasing LV indices. However, after ASD II closure, the left ventricle regains near normal dimensions. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of LV reverse remodeling between device and surgical closure.

Evolution of left ventricular function in the preterm infant.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate left ventricular function in preterm infants from 28 days to near term using echocardiography.

Methods: Thirty clinically stable preterm infants delivered at <30 weeks' gestational age were prospectively enrolled. At 28 days, conventional, tissue Doppler, and speckle-tracking echocardiography evaluations of left ventricular function were performed, with comparison made to findings in 30 healthy term infants of similar postnatal age.