[Right ventricular function after a first episode of pulmonary embolism: Contribution of longitudinal 2D strain].

Background: Analysis of right ventricular (RV) function during the acute phase of pulmonary embolism (PE) was widely reported in the literature. However, few studies analysed its function long term after the acute phase. Our aim was to evaluate the RV function long term after a first episode of PE.

Methods: In this study, we compared echocardiographic parameters of right ventricular function in 25 patients with a first episode of non-severe PE for more than six months with 25 healthy controls subject.

Results: In the study of RV function, we noted that the mean values of the standard parameters were significantly lower in the EP group compared to the control group but their values remained within the normal range. The global RV longitudinal strain had a mean value lower than the control group statistically significant (-21±4,8% vs. -25±2,4%; P=0,28). The longitudinal strain of the free wall of the RV was altered in the EP group, however, there was no significant difference between the EP group and the control group (-19,4±16% vs. -24±17%; P=0,28).

Conclusion: This study has shown that there is a systolic dysfunction late after a first episode of PE and this despite the absence of the symptoms and pulmonary hypertension.