Ejection fraction

Definition

Ejection fraction (EF) is the percentage of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each heartbeat. It is a key measure in diagnosing and assessing the severity of heart failure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ejection fraction is typically measured using an echocardiogram.
2. A normal ejection fraction ranges from 55% to 70%.
3. Ejection fraction below 40% may indicate heart failure or cardiomyopathy.
4. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) occurs when EF is normal but symptoms of heart failure are present.
5. Medications for heart failure can help improve or stabilize ejection fraction.

Review Questions

• What diagnostic tool is commonly used to measure ejection fraction?
• What is considered a normal range for ejection fraction?
• How does an ejection fraction below 40% relate to heart failure?

Related terms

Cardiomyopathy: A disease of the heart muscle that can lead to reduced ejection fraction.

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF): A type of heart failure where the ejection fraction remains within normal limits, but symptoms and dysfunction are present.

Echocardiogram: An imaging test that uses ultrasound to visualize the heart's structure and measure its function, including ejection fraction.