Fractional shortening (FS) is a key echocardiographic parameter in cardiac ultrasound, quantifying the percentage change in left ventricular (LV) diameter from end-diastole to end-systole. It serves as a crucial non-invasive measure of global left ventricular systolic function, providing insights into the heart’s pumping efficiency. Clinicians use FS to assess cardiac contractility and monitor heart health, making it an indispensable tool in medical imaging for evaluating heart function.
Optimizing cardiac care, fractional shortening is a vital metric for diagnosing and managing various heart conditions. This ultrasound-derived measurement helps identify myocardial dysfunction, track disease progression, and guide therapeutic interventions. Its ease of acquisition and real-time feedback solidify its role as a fundamental component of comprehensive cardiac assessments in modern medical practice.