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Professional Technical IVT

akinetic wall motion

Complete absence of myocardial wall movement during cardiac contraction as seen on echocardiography.

Full Definition

Akinetic wall motion refers to the complete absence of myocardial wall movement during systolic contraction, indicating severe myocardial dysfunction or necrosis. This finding is typically observed on echocardiography during acute coronary syndromes and represents non-viable myocardium. Wall motion abnormalities are graded from normal (normokinetic) to hypokinetic, akinetic, and dyskinetic. The presence of akinetic segments helps clinicians assess the extent of myocardial damage and guide treatment decisions.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify the anatomical location when describing akinetic segments.

In Context

  • "The echocardiogram revealed akinetic wall motion in the anterior wall consistent with LAD territory infarction." — Cardiology consultation note
  • "Serial imaging showed progression from hypokinetic to akinetic wall motion over 24 hours." — Progress note

Also known as

absent wall motion

Contrasted with

normokinetic hyperkinetic

Don't confuse with

hypokinetic dyskinetic

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