The ejection fraction isn't 100% because even a healthy heart doesn't pump out all of the blood in its chamber with each beat; it typically ejects only about half to two-thirds.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
- Normal Range: A normal ejection fraction ranges from 55% to 65%. This means that with each heartbeat, the left ventricle (the heart's main pumping chamber) ejects 55% to 65% of its total blood volume.
- Why Not 100%?: The heart needs to retain some blood to function effectively and efficiently in the subsequent filling and contraction phases. Completely emptying the ventricle with each beat is not physiologically optimal.
| Ejection Fraction Percentage | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 55% - 65% | Normal |
| Below 55% | May indicate heart failure or other heart conditions (consult a healthcare provider) |
