Echocardiographic observation on changes of left ventricular structure and function in healthy elderly

Abstract

The method of M-mode and 2-dimensional echocardiography was employed in 81 healthy persons to compare the difference in left ventricular structure and function between the elderly group (n = 41, aged 60–76 years) and the control group (n = 40, 22–58 aged years). The results revealed: 1) Aging of cardiovascular system was structurally as well as functionally reflected by echocardiogram, with echocardiographic findings appearing earlier than clinical manifestations. 2) Myocardial contractility and pump function of the elderly were often maintained in good status at rest. 3) Latent depression of left ventricular diastolic function was frequently seen in the elderly. LAD, AE, MVV and EPSS were found to be sensitive compared with the control group, (P< 0.05, < 0.001, < 0.001, < 0.001, respectively) and useful indices, which can be readily determined. Therefore, in order to evaluate the status of cardiac structure and function of the elderly accurately, it is important to refer to the normal values of relevant age group and draw conclusions from multi-parameters.

Keywords

echocardiogram / left ventricular function of the elderly