Assessing cardiac mechanics through left ventricular haemodynamic forces
Alberto Aimo, Giorgia Panichella, Iacopo Fabiani, Manuel Garofalo, Angela Ilaria Fanizzi, M Ragagnin, Alessandra Milazzo, Chiara Zocchi, Annamaria Del Franco, Gianni Pedrizzetti, Iacopo Olivotto, Michele Emdin
Abstract
Haemodynamic forces (HDFs), which represent the forces exchanged between blood and surrounding tissues, are critical in regulating the structure and function of the left ventricle (LV). These forces can be assessed on cardiac magnetic resonance or transthoracic echocardiography exams using specialized software, offering a non-invasive alternative for measuring intraventricular pressure gradients. The analysis of HDFs can be a valuable tool in improving our understanding of cardiovascular disease and providing insights beyond traditional diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. For instance, HDF analysis has the potential to identify early signs of adverse remodelling and cardiac dysfunction, which may not be detected by standard imaging methods such as bidimensional or speckle-tracking echocardiography. This review aims to summarize the principles of HDF analysis and to reappraise its possible applications to cardiac disorders.