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Abstract The myocardial performance index (Tei index) determined by the pulsed Doppler method is a simple and noninvasive measurement for assessing global right ventricular (RV) function. This index can also be obtained by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). We studied the effects of significant pulmonary regurgitation (PR) on the determination of the Tei index by these two methods. We examined 15 patients (7.933 ±3.076years) with significant PR after repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and 15 age matched healthy children. Myocardial wall motion velocities at the tricuspid annulus were assessed during systole (Sa), early diastole (Ea), and late diastole (Aa) from a four-chamber view. Pulsed Doppler–Tei index and TDI–Tei index were measured as reported previously. The Tei index obtained by the pulsed Doppler method in Group I did not differ from that in normal children (Group II) (0.298 ± 0. 045 vs 0.285 ± 0.034,p = NS). TDI showed that Group I had significantly decreased Ea, Aa, and Sa velocities compared to those of normal children (Group II). Both isovolumic contraction time and isovolumic relaxation time in Group I were significantly longer than those in normal children ( 85.893 ± 3.189 vs 64.427 ±2.894 msec and 50.657 ±8.681 vs 21.900 ±1.681 msec, respectively; p < 0.0001). The Tei index as measured by TDI was significantly greater in Group I than in normal children (0.511 ± 0.033 vs 0.291 ± 0.026, p <0.0001). The Tei index measured by the pulsed Doppler method is limited in its ability to assess RV function in patients with significant PR. However, the Tei index determined by TDI is a sensitive indicator of RV function in these patients, and it appears to be a promising new means of assessing global RV function in patients with significant PR. |