akinesis
Pronunciation: ay-kih-NEE-sis
Complete absence of wall motion in a segment of the myocardium, typically indicating severe ischemia or infarction.
Full Definition
Akinesis refers to the complete lack of myocardial wall motion during systolic contraction, representing the most severe form of regional wall motion abnormality. Unlike hypokinesis (reduced motion) or dyskinesis (paradoxical motion), akinetic segments show no inward movement during systole. This finding typically indicates transmural myocardial infarction or severe ischemia and is associated with non-viable myocardium. Akinesis can be detected on various imaging modalities including echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and nuclear imaging studies. The presence and extent of akinetic segments significantly impacts left ventricular function and prognosis.
In Context
- "Echocardiography revealed akinesis of the anterior and septal walls consistent with LAD territory infarction." — Echocardiogram report
- "The patient developed akinesis in the inferior segments following the acute MI." — Hospital discharge summary