Ventricular remodeling overview

Ventricular Remodeling
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Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Ventricular Remodeling From Other Conditions
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Future or Investigational Therapies

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Ventricular remodeling refers to the changes in size, shape, and function of the heart after injury to the left ventricle. The injury is typically due to acute myocardial infarction (usually transmural or ST segment elevation infarction), but may be from a number of causes that result in increased pressure or volume overload (forms of strain) on the heart. Chronic hypertension, congenital heart disease with intracardiac shunting, and valvular heart disease may also lead to remodeling. After the insult occurs, a series of histopathological and structural changes occur in the left ventricular myocardium that lead to progressive decline in left ventricular performance. Ultimately, ventricular remodeling may result in diminished contractile (systolic) function and reduced stroke volume.

Medically speaking, "ventricular remodeling" implies a decline in function (even though the word "remodeling" usually implies improvement). The term "reverse remodeling" in cardiology implies an improvement in ventricular mechanics and function after a remote injury.