[Standardized protodiastolic median velocity of the posterior wall (dpwV) used as an index of relaxation in the construction of left ventricular function curves].

The standardized mean protodiastolic speed of the posterior wall (Vpwd), non standardized speed (DEV) and maximum speed (DEVM) obtained with ultrasounds, are capable of distinguishing subjects with hypertrophic subaortic stenosis (IHSS), in whom there is a diminution in compliance, from normal subjects. As this compliance diminution is liable to limit fibrocell lengthening to the extent of its distension speed, the Vpwd has been used in the plotting of ventricular function curves in replacement of telediastolic volume (as an expression of fibre lengthening). An excellent correlation was found between Vpwd and mean speed of circumferential shortening of the fibre (Mvcf) and the ejection fraction (EF) used as indices of cardiac work. The comparison shows that the two groups lie on the same curve of ventricular function and that subjects with IHSS operate low down owing to the brevity of their sarcomeres. The Vpwd can thus be utilized as an indirect index of fibre length and in the plotting of left ventricular function curves.