Doppler echocardiography for assessing left ventricular diastolic function.

During the last 2 years, the use of pulsed Doppler echocardiography for assessing left ventricular diastolic function has received increased attention. This method is based on measurements derived from a waveform that reflects the velocity of blood flow through the mitral valve during ventricular filling. The technique is particularly attractive because it is noninvasive and relatively simple. Technically satisfactory recordings can be obtained in most patients. In a relatively short period, numerous studies using the Doppler technique to assess diastolic function in children and adults with cardiac disease have been published. This review appraises the current status of applications of Doppler echocardiography and critically examines the strengths, limitations, and ultimate potentials of this new method.