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Intermediate Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

circumferential strain

Measurement of myocardial deformation in the direction tangent to the ventricular circumference, typically negative during systole.

Full Definition

Circumferential strain is a quantitative parameter that measures the deformation of myocardial tissue in the circumferential direction around the left ventricular cavity. It represents the percentage change in circumferential length during the cardiac cycle, with negative values indicating shortening (normal systolic function) and positive values indicating lengthening. Circumferential strain is particularly sensitive to subendocardial dysfunction and is one of the most reproducible strain parameters. Normal values typically range from -15% to -25%, with more negative values indicating better contractile function.

Usage

Usage note: Express as negative percentages during normal systolic contraction.

In Context

  • "Global circumferential strain was reduced at -12%, indicating impaired systolic function." — Strain analysis report
  • "Peak circumferential strain showed regional variation with preserved values in the lateral wall." — Segmental function assessment

Also known as

circumferential shortening

Don't confuse with

radial strain longitudinal strain

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