Echocardiographic evaluation of systolic heart failure.

Echocardiography is the most commonly used modality for evaluating left ventricular size and function in the context of systolic heart failure. Traditional techniques, though extensively used, have their limitations and more recently several newer technologies have emerged that are more reproducible, provide prognostic information, guide therapies and have an important role in monitoring progress. This review will evaluate the traditional and more novel techniques used and briefly provide an overview of the role of echocardiography in guiding and monitoring therapies in patients with systolic heart failure.