A new comprehensive 12-segment approach to right ventricular systolic and diastolic functions by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography in healthy individuals.

Background: 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) was proved to be accurate for the assessment of the RV function. However, normal values for RV strain refer mostly to 3- or 6-segment models, excluding the contribution of other RV walls to RV function. We analyze RV function by 2DSTE in a normal population, using parasternal two-(2C) and apical four-chamber (4C) RV views, and creating a new 12-segment model for a potential better definition of RV function.

Comparison of pulse wave velocity assessed by three different techniques: Arteriograph, Complior, and Echo-tracking.

Arterial stiffness estimated by pulse wave velocity (PWV) is an independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Although recommended by the current guidelines, clinical applicability of this parameter is difficult, due to differences between the various techniques used to measure it and to biological variability. Our aim was to compare PWV assessed by 3 different commercially available systems.

Early detection of epirubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in patients with breast cancer.

Background: Epirubicin is a cytotoxic drug, widely used in patients with breast cancer, but its application is limited by its cardiotoxicity. Assessment of left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) is performed to demonstrate cardiac dysfunction. Because normal EF can mask LV impairment, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether deformation and rotation assessed using speckle-tracking echocardiography represent better markers of early epirubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

Myocardial systolic velocities and deformation assessed by speckle tracking for early detection of left ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic patients with severe primary mitral regurgitation.

Aims: In asymptomatic patients with severe primary mitral regurgitation (PMR), early detection of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction indicates the optimal timing of mitral valve surgery; however, normal ejection fraction (EF) and end-systolic diameter (ESD) can mask significant LV impairment.

Methods: We studied 28 asymptomatic patients (59 ± 13 years, 18 male) with severe PMR, EF > 60%, and ESD < 45 mm, and 10 age-matched healthy subjects. All underwent echocardiography with tissue velocity imaging to assess LV geometry, EF, and longitudinal systolic function; and two-dimensional speckle tracking to assess longitudinal strain (LS) and longitudinal strain rate (LSR), and radial strain (RS) and radial strain rate (RSR).