New echocardiographic techniques for evaluation of left atrial mechanics.
Until recently the left atrium had been subordinate to the left ventricle, but cardiologists now recognize that left atrial (LA) function is indispensable to normal circulatory performance. Transthoracic two-dimensional (2D) and Doppler echocardiography can elucidate parameters of LA function non-invasively. Yet, with the advent of 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography, we are able to detect early LA dysfunction even before structural changes occur. This is pivotal in some common disease states, such as atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and heart failure, in which LA deformation parameters can influence clinical management. However, a unique standardized technique to investigate LA deformation needs to be validated.
Clinical and Experimental Department of Medicine and Pharmacology,  University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria N 1, Messina 98100,  Italy.
Maria Chiara
MC
Todaro
Indrajit
I
Choudhuri
Marek
M
Belohlavek
Arshad
A
Jahangir
Scipione
S
Carerj
Lilia
L
Oreto
Bijoy K
BK
Khandheria
D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D016279:Atrial Function, Left / Q000502:physiology*; D004452:Echocardiography / Q000379:methods*; D006325:Heart Atria / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D006349:Heart Valve Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology