Left Ventricular Diastolic Function: Understanding Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Prognosis With Echocardiography

Abstract

Left ventricular diastolic function plays an important role in determining left ventricular filling and stroke volume. Abnormal diastolic function has been recognized in many cardiovascular diseases and is associated with worse outcomes, including total mortality and hospitalizations due to heart failure. Using echocardiography, it is possible to diagnose the presence of diastolic dysfunction and the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved as they affect left ventricular and left atrial structure and function. This review addresses the role of echocardiography in understanding the pathophysiology of diastolic dysfunction, its diagnosis, and utility in predicting outcomes.