Filling velocities as markers of diastolic function

Abstract

Left ventricular (LV) filling velocities provide important insights into ventricular function and are useful clinical markers of diastolic dysfunction. Filling velocities can be measured at bedside by Doppler echocardiography and can be incorporated into everyday cardiology practice. Interpretation of filling velocities in a clinical context, however, requires insights into cardiac mechanics. The objective of this chapter is to review the essential physiology of filling and how changes in LV systolic and diastolic function can modify filling velocities as measured by Doppler echocardiography. This chapter addresses filling of the left ventricle only. Filling patterns for the right ventricle are of clinical importance for the diagnosis of restrictive cardiomyopathy and constrictive pericarditis and are addressed in Chapter 21. © 2008 Springer-Verlag London Limited.