akinesis
Pronunciation: ay-kih-NEE-sis
Complete absence of wall motion and thickening in a myocardial segment during systole.
Full Definition
Akinesis describes the complete absence of wall motion and systolic thickening in a myocardial segment, typically indicating severe ischemia, acute infarction, or chronic scar tissue. Unlike hypokinesis where some motion remains, akinetic segments show no discernible contractile activity during the cardiac cycle. This finding is often associated with transmural myocardial infarction or severe stunning and may be reversible with successful reperfusion therapy if detected acutely. Akinetic segments receive a wall motion score of 3 on the standardized 17-segment model used in cardiac imaging, and their presence significantly impacts overall left ventricular function and prognosis.
Usage
Usage note: Reserve for segments with complete absence of motion; distinguish from hypokinesis.
In Context
- "Cardiac MRI revealed akinesis of the entire anterior wall with transmural late enhancement." — Post-infarct evaluation report
- "The patient developed akinesis of the inferior segments following acute RCA occlusion." — STEMI intervention note