Longitudinal strain in patients with severe aortic regurgitation: superiority to ejection fraction for detection of myocardial dysfunction

Abstract Objectives The aim of the study was to analyse LV systolic function and mechanical energetics in asymptomatic patients with severe aortic regurgitation (AR) to seek a new hemodynamic concept for timing for surgery. Background Current guidelines suggest surgery for patients with severe AR including clinical symptoms, subnormal LV ejection fraction (EF), or markedly abnormal left ventricular dimensions. However, the optimal measure to detect intrinsic myocardial systolic dysfunction in the presence of normal LVEF remains elusive. Methods Strain and echo-derived single beat pressure-volume analyses were performed in cohorts with severe AR without indication for surgery (ARNS; LVEDD 50%, n=41), with indication for surgery (ARS; n=19) and in healthy, age-matched controls (C; n=20). Additionally, end-systolic elastance (Ees=LV contractility), stroke work (SW) and total energy (PVA) were calculated. Results Patients with ARNS demonstrated significant depression of LV contractility vs. C: Ees (1.5mmHg/ml ±0.7 vs. 2.25mmHg/ml ±0.7; p