ejection fraction
The percentage of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each heartbeat, used as a measure of cardiac function.
Full Definition
Ejection fraction (EF) is a key metric of left ventricular systolic function, calculated as the percentage of blood volume ejected from the left ventricle during systole. Normal ejection fraction ranges from 50-70%, with values below 40% typically indicating systolic dysfunction. The measurement is obtained through various imaging modalities including echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, or nuclear studies. In cardiac surgery, ejection fraction influences operative risk assessment, surgical planning, and postoperative management strategies. Preserved ejection fraction doesn't exclude diastolic dysfunction or other cardiac abnormalities that may affect surgical outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Express as percentage; specify left ventricular when discussing right heart function separately.
In Context
- "Preoperative echocardiography demonstrated a reduced ejection fraction of 35%." — Preoperative evaluation
- "Despite preserved ejection fraction, the patient exhibited signs of diastolic heart failure." — Clinical assessment