Doppler echocardiography and tisular doppler study to the left ventricular function in athletes and sedentary people: correlation with maximum arobic capacity

pp 119-125

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the left ventricular systolic and diastolic function at rest in athletes and sedentary people, and its correlation with the maximum aerobic exercise capacity. 

Research design and methods

Two groups were studied: G1, Athletes: 35 rugby players, average age 25 ± 7 years and G2: Sedentary people, average age 25 ± 7 years. Doppler echocardiography in resting and maximum ergometric test were performed  in all subjects. We measured a) body composition variables, b) echocardiographic Doppler and tisular pulse Doppler dimensions and variables of systolic and diastolic left ventricular function, c) ergometric test variables at rest, maximum effort and recovery stages, including indirect maximal oxygen intake (VO₂Max). 

Results 

G1 was superior in weight, body surface, systolic function indexes, reaching major maximum aerobic capacity in the ergometric test (p<0.05).  There were no differences in diastolic function indexes and ventricular mass. The univariate analysis showed significant correlation of maximal oxygen intake with E/A ratio and with tisular E wave in athletes. Multiple regression analysis showed a lineal relation between VO2Max and tisular E wave in the same group (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Left ventricular systolic function in athletes showed more contractile efficiency than in sedentary people on account of preload without showing significant changes in ventricular mass. Diastolic function was similar in both groups. The tisular E wave at rest appeared to be the unique predictor variable of maximal aerobic capacity reached by athletes during effort, confirming the myocardial diastolic component importance of exercise.