Left ventricular functions in COPD

Purpose: to study left ventricular performance in COPD. Methods: 30 patients with clinically manifest COPD were included in this work, they were subgrouped into 3 different groups according to their ABGs analysis. The LV performance was assessed Echocardiographically in all cases and with Radionuclide study in selected cases. Analysis of the cardiac oscillation on the plateau phase (phase III) of SBN2 washout test was also used to assess LV performance. Results: LV systolic performance was found to be impaired in 6 cases out of 30, further evaluation of these cases, revealed the presence of CAD. Diastolic dysfunction was detected in 26 patients and it was found to be strongly correlated with PaO2 level. Conclusion: The systolic function of the LV was found to be preserved in COPD patients who had no associated CAD. Diastolic dysfunction was detected in most cases and it was found to be strongly related to PaO2 level. Clinical implications: Routine use of Digoxine in patients with COPD with OR without right sided HF has no clinical value. Medications that may improve the diastolic functions of the left ventricle, might have a good place, especially in patients with corpulmonale. Calcium channel blockers may so have a beneficial effect.