Prevalence of left ventricular ‘rigid body rotation’, the near absence of left ventricular twist (insights from the MAGYAR studies)

Abstract

Left ventricular (LV) twist is defined as the wringing motion of the LV around its long-axis during systole generated by rotation of the LV apex in a counterclockwise direction, as viewed from the apex, while the LV base moves in a clockwise direction. In several cases, the LV apex and base move in the same direction during ejection demonstrating a special condition called as LV ‘rigid body rotation’. The present review aimed to summarize our knowledge about this rare but not fully understood entity demonstrating its theoretic pathophysiologic background, clinical significance, associated diseases, and reversibility based on available literature.