SYSTOLIC-TIME INTERVALS IN CARDIAC-TAMPONADE

Systolic time intervals (STI) have been measured in three patients with cardiac tamponade. The left ventricular ejection time (LVET), the preejection period (PEP) and the ratio PEP/LVET deviated significantly from the normal values. All three parameters improved immediately after pericardiocentesis and aspiration. The total electromechanical systole changed to only a minor degree. Measurement of STI may be a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac tamponade.