LVOT
Pronunciation: EL-vot
Also written as: LVOT — left ventricular outflow tract
The left ventricular outflow tract, the pathway through which blood exits the left ventricle into the aorta.
Full Definition
The left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) is the anatomical region between the left ventricular cavity and the ascending aorta, bounded by the interventricular septum, anterior mitral leaflet, and aortic valve. This area is critical for proper cardiac function as it serves as the conduit for systolic ejection of blood from the left ventricle. LVOT obstruction can occur due to various pathological conditions including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, discrete subaortic stenosis, or systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve. Assessment of LVOT dimensions and velocities is essential in echocardiography for calculating stroke volume, cardiac output, and detecting outflow tract abnormalities. LVOT measurements are also crucial for transcatheter aortic valve replacement planning.
Usage
Usage note: Pronounced as a word; commonly used abbreviation in cardiac imaging reports.
In Context
- "The LVOT velocity was elevated at 3.2 m/s, suggesting outflow tract obstruction." — Echocardiogram report
- "LVOT dimensions were measured in the parasternal long-axis view for stroke volume calculation." — Echocardiography protocol