State-of-the-Art: Noninvasive Assessment of Left Ventricular Function Through Myocardial Work

Abstract

The assessment of myocardial work (MW) using noninvasive pressure-strain loop analysis is a novel echocardiographic method that provides a more precise assessment of cardiac performance by considering the left ventricular loading condition. By integrating various MW components such as index, efficiency, and constructive and wasted work, an extensive analysis of left ventricular mechanics and energetics can be achieved. This approach offers a more comprehensive assessment of global cardiac function and performance, surpassing conventional surrogate indices. In this review, we aim to summarize the existing knowledge on MW and its distinctive characteristics in various cardiac pathologies.

Keywords: Afterload; Heart failure; Myocardial dysfunction; Myocardial work; Pressure-strain loops; Strain.