Using Speckle Tracking Analysis, Does Age Affect RV Longitudinal Strain?

Abstract

Introduction: The right ventricle (RV) is increasingly crucial in clinical settings, but traditional echocardiography is challenging to evaluate its function. Advanced techniques like speckle tracking improve RV functional assessment. According to previous studies, RV free wall longitudinal strain measurements vary with age necessitating further research. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of age on RV longitudinal strain using speckle tracking (ST) analysis. Methods: 103 healthy adult volunteers, mean age 37.1±11.9 years (range: 20-66), underwent comprehensive speckle tracking analysis, to determine age-related changes in RV dimensions and function. Results: showed a significant decrease in global and segmental (basal, mid, and apical) FWLS with age (p < .001). Conclusion: These significant differences in free wall longitudinal strains among age groups by 2D-ST analysis indicate the need for age-adjusted measures in RV function evaluation. Conventional techniques may ignore minor changes, leading to underestimated RV function assessment. The findings also suggest that advanced techniques allow early identification of RV dysfunction by detecting subclinical dysfunction before anomalies revealed by traditional echocardiography occur.