End-systolic dimension

End-systolic dimension (ESD) is a measurement used in cardiology to assess the size of the left ventricle of the heart at the end of its contraction, or systole. This measurement is typically obtained through echocardiography, a diagnostic test that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart.

Overview

The end-systolic dimension is an important parameter in the evaluation of cardiac function. It provides information about the contractile function of the heart, as it reflects the smallest size the left ventricle achieves during the cardiac cycle. An increased ESD can indicate a decrease in the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, which can be a sign of conditions such as heart failure or dilated cardiomyopathy.

Measurement

The end-systolic dimension is typically measured in millimeters (mm) using two-dimensional echocardiography. The measurement is taken from the inner edge of the septum to the inner edge of the posterior wall of the left ventricle at the end of systole. This is often referred to as the "inner edge to inner edge" method.

Clinical significance

An increased end-systolic dimension can be indicative of several cardiac conditions. These include:

• Heart failure: This is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. An increased ESD can be a sign of left ventricular systolic dysfunction, a common cause of heart failure.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy: This is a disease of the heart muscle that causes the left ventricle to enlarge and weaken, leading to heart failure. An increased ESD is a common finding in this condition.
• Ischemic heart disease: This is a condition in which the blood supply to the heart is reduced, often due to atherosclerosis. An increased ESD can be a sign of left ventricular remodeling, a process that occurs in response to myocardial ischemia.

See also

• Echocardiography
• Heart failure
• Dilated cardiomyopathy
• Ischemic heart disease