LVEF
Pronunciation: L-V-E-F
Also written as: LVEF — Left ventricular ejection fraction
Left ventricular ejection fraction, a key measurement of heart pump function expressed as a percentage in cardiac assessments.
Full Definition
Left ventricular ejection fraction represents the percentage of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each heartbeat, serving as a primary indicator of cardiac systolic function. Normal LVEF ranges from 50-70%, with values below 40% indicating reduced ejection fraction and heart failure. This measurement is obtained through various imaging modalities including echocardiography, nuclear studies, or cardiac MRI. Medical editors frequently encounter LVEF values in diagnostic reports, treatment decisions, and prognostic assessments. The measurement guides therapy selection, particularly for heart failure medications and device implantation criteria such as defibrillators.
Usage
Usage note: Always express as percentage; distinguish from right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF).
In Context
- "The echocardiogram showed LVEF of 25%, indicating severe systolic dysfunction." — Diagnostic imaging report
- "LVEF improvement from 30% to 45% was noted after optimal medical therapy." — Cardiology follow-up assessment