SAM of the mitral valve, or Systolic Anterior Motion, is a critical echocardiographic finding in cardiac ultrasound where the mitral valve leaflet moves abnormally towards the interventricular septum during systole. This phenomenon often leads to left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction and mitral regurgitation, particularly in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Understanding SAM is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of these conditions, as it impacts treatment strategies.
For medical professionals and sonographers, recognizing SAM is essential for precise cardiac assessment. Its detection via ultrasound guides further evaluation of LVOT gradients and the severity of mitral regurgitation, providing vital information for patient care. Optimizing ultrasound views to clearly visualize mitral valve dynamics is key for identifying SAM and related cardiac pathologies.
