Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sophisticated echocardiographic parameter in cardiac ultrasound, quantifying the myocardial deformation along the long axis of the left ventricle. It represents the percentage of shortening of the heart muscle fibers from base to apex during systole. GLS is a highly sensitive and reproducible measure for detecting subtle changes in ventricular function, often before ejection fraction declines.
This advanced cardiac imaging technique provides critical insights into myocardial health, aiding in the early diagnosis of various heart conditions, including chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, amyloidosis, and subclinical systolic dysfunction. Its role in medical ultrasound is growing due to its ability to offer a more precise assessment of global ventricular function, improving risk stratification and guiding therapeutic decisions for optimal patient outcomes.
