Fractional Shortening

[reezlemom]

Dr. Fett, I've read a couple of places that a FS value in excess of 26% is considered normal, but I've read 30% here. Is it like the 50 vs 55% normal range for EF?

[JAMESFETT]

Actually, it is better to think of an FS between 25-30 as equivalent to an EF of 45-50. The guidelines for a diagnosis of PPCM include echocardiographic criteria of systolic dysfunction of EF=/<45 % and/or FS <30 %.

JD

[kirstinherbs]

Hi Dr Fett

this fractional shortening thing really annoys me - my ef is considered to be around 60% but yet my fractional shortening is only around 27% - how can this be ?I found a calculation were you work out ejection fraction from fractional shortening and then add 10% for the apex if it is contracting properly?

Kirstin

[JAMESFETT]

Make it simple, and just go by EF, most cardiologists around here do. The formula you mention makes no sense to me.

JD