normal values

Can you tell me what the normal values are for ventricular septum, gradient, ventricular wall thickness, and velocity as reported on an echocardiogram? Also, is it possible to have improvements in these numbers from meds such as Atenolol and/or Norpace? Are there other factors that can influence these numbers? I am referring to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and improvements in my numbers in the past 18 months. Although I don't feel that much better. What parameters do you use at the Cleveland Clinic for the myectomy procedure? Thank you.

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear olive,
Normal septal and ventricular wall thickness is between 0.9 and 1.1 cm.  Hypertrophy usually is diagnosed between 1.2 and 1.4 and values greater than 1.4 are consistent with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). There should be no gradient across the aortic valve/LVOT in normal individuals.  In individuals with HCM grandients range from <20mmHg (mild) to >100mmHg (severe).

We don't usually see much decrease in wall thickness with HCM although there may be 0.1-0.2 cm variation depending on where the measurement was taken and in what phase of the cycle the heart was in.

In making the decision on myectomy we tend to look more at the gradient and symptoms.  Every person is different and the therapy must be tailored for him/her.  I would recommend seeing Dr. Harry Lever here at the Clinic for a complete evaluation and second opinion.  You can make an appointment with him by calling 1-800-223-2273.