Echocardiography is employed to determine the amount of blood ejected from the left ventricle with each heartbeat. This assessment is crucial for evaluating cardiac function. It involves measuring several parameters, including left ventricular volumes at the end of diastole (filling) and systole (contraction). The difference between these volumes represents the amount of blood ejected with each beat. For example, if the end-diastolic volume is 120 mL and the end-systolic volume is 50 mL, then 70 mL is propelled into the aorta and systemic circulation.
Assessing the ejection fraction derived from echocardiographic images offers invaluable insights into the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. Reduced values can indicate heart failure or other cardiac conditions. This information guides clinical decision-making, influencing treatment strategies and monitoring disease progression. Furthermore, its historical integration into cardiology practice has made it a cornerstone in non-invasive cardiac assessment. The ability to gauge myocardial performance has revolutionized the management of cardiovascular health.