Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and E-point Septal Separation

Abstract

One of the most important questions in complex shock is, “What is the function of the left heart?” This can be answered by assessment of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and E-point septal separation (EPSS), which correlates with LVEF (Massie et al., Am J Cardiol 39(7):1008–1016, 1977; Lew et al., Am J Cardiol 41(2):436, 1978). One-third of ICU patients will have reduced LVEF during their ICU stay, and, therefore, assessment of LVEF is recommended by the Society of Critical Care Medicine in all ICU patients with pre-existing or hospital-acquired cardiac disease. We have also found LVEF assessment essential in any patient with complex shock to manage fluid and inotropic support during ongoing resuscitation.