diastolic filling pattern
The characteristic flow profile across the mitral valve during diastole, classified as normal, impaired relaxation, pseudonormal, or restrictive.
Full Definition
Diastolic filling patterns describe the hemodynamic characteristics of left ventricular filling as assessed by Doppler echocardiography. The pattern is determined by analyzing mitral inflow velocities (E and A waves), their ratio (E/A), and deceleration time. Normal filling shows an E/A ratio of 1-2 with appropriate deceleration. Impaired relaxation (Grade I dysfunction) shows E/A <1, while pseudonormal (Grade II) appears normal but with elevated filling pressures. Restrictive filling (Grade III) demonstrates E/A >2 with short deceleration time, indicating severely elevated left atrial pressures.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the grade of diastolic dysfunction when describing abnormal patterns.
In Context
- "The diastolic filling pattern showed impaired relaxation with an E/A ratio of 0.7." — Echocardiography interpretation
- "A restrictive diastolic filling pattern was consistent with advanced heart failure." — Cardiac assessment report