Ventricular Remodeling
Progressive changes in ventricular size, shape, and function following myocardial injury or in response to hemodynamic stress.
Full Definition
Ventricular remodeling refers to the complex process of structural and functional changes that occur in the ventricle following myocardial infarction, pressure overload, or volume overload. This process involves alterations at the cellular, tissue, and organ levels, including myocyte hypertrophy, apoptosis, fibrosis, and changes in ventricular geometry. While initially compensatory, progressive remodeling can lead to heart failure and adverse clinical outcomes. In cardiac surgery, understanding remodeling patterns is crucial for timing interventions, as certain procedures like ventricular reconstruction or mitral valve repair can favorably influence the remodeling process. Reverse remodeling, characterized by improvement in ventricular function and geometry, is often a goal of surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between adverse and reverse (beneficial) remodeling in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Serial echocardiograms demonstrated progressive ventricular remodeling with increasing left ventricular dimensions despite optimal medical therapy." — Cardiology consultation
- "The timing of mitral valve intervention was based on evidence of early ventricular remodeling to prevent irreversible dysfunction." — Preoperative assessment