Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is a predictor of outcome after a myocardial infarction

Pulsed Doppler recordings of transmitral filling (panel A) and color M-mode Doppler echocardiography (panel B) are methods for evaluating left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. In a normal filling pattern, the mitral E-wave deceleration time (DT) is 140 to 240 ms and the M-mode flow propagation velocity (Vp) is ≥45 cm/s. In diastolic dysfunction with impaired relaxation, the DT is prolonged ≥240 ms and Vp is normal or reduced (<45 cm/s). In a pseudonormal filling pattern, the DT may be normal or prolonged, but the Vp is <45 cm/s. In diastolic dysfunction with a restrictive filling, the DT is <140 ms and the Vp is normal or <45 cm/s. Patients with a myocardial infarction who have a restrictive or pseudonormal pattern have an increased incidence of left ventricular dilation and cardiac death.