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What is LVID?

Published in Cardiac Measurement 2 mins read

LVID stands for Left Ventricular Internal Dimension. It's a measurement used in echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) to assess the size of the left ventricle, the heart's main pumping chamber.

Understanding LVID

The left ventricle's internal dimension is measured at two key points in the cardiac cycle:

  • LVIDd (Left Ventricular Internal Dimension at end-diastole): This measurement is taken when the left ventricle is at its fullest, just before it contracts. Diastole is the relaxation phase of the heart where it fills with blood.

  • LVIDs (Left Ventricular Internal Dimension at end-systole): This measurement is taken when the left ventricle has completed its contraction and ejected blood. Systole is the contraction phase.

Why LVID is Important

LVID measurements are crucial for:

  • Assessing heart function: Changes in LVIDd and LVIDs can indicate problems with the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

  • Diagnosing heart conditions: Enlarged LVIDd can be a sign of heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy, or other conditions that cause the heart to enlarge.

  • Monitoring treatment: LVID measurements can be used to track the effectiveness of treatments for heart conditions.

Normal LVID Values

Normal LVID values vary depending on factors like age, sex, and body size. Echocardiography reports will typically compare the patient's measurements to expected normal ranges. It's important to consult with a cardiologist for proper interpretation of LVID measurements.

Summary

LVID, or Left Ventricular Internal Dimension, is a key measurement taken during echocardiograms to evaluate the size and function of the heart's left ventricle during diastole (LVIDd) and systole (LVIDs). These measurements help in diagnosing and monitoring various heart conditions.