[Noninvasive demonstration of wall movement and stroke volume distribution of the left ventricle after myocardial infarction (author's transl)].

A noninvasive technique, i.e., the intravenous injection of a bolus of 99mTc, allows one to visualize the wall motion and the stroke volume distribution of the left ventricle after myocardial infarction. Thus, in the first weeks after infarction, it is possible 1) to answer the question of the function of the involved wall segment, 2) to detect early complications, 3) to follow-up the course 4) to estimate the patient's functional status for treatment more accurately and 5) to control the result of treatment. Furthermore, one can calculate the ejection fraction, demonstrate other zones of reduced systolic function and evaluate the degree of congestion in the lung and involvement of the right ventricle. The study is based on 42 examinations in 35 patients with proven myocardial infarction. Only three patients presented normal systolic wall motion. In the remaining 32 patients there was hypokinesia of the infarcted segment partly combined with some temporary dyskinesia during ventricular contraction or with localized akinesia. Three patients had an aneurysm, two a ventricular septal defect and 19 some degree of mitral reflux, in seven congestive heart failure was present. Certain technical requirements are essential for this noninvasive technique. They are discussed in detail. Examples of wall motion and stroke volume distribution of a normal left ventricle, anterior and posterior infarction and an aneurysm are illustrated.