Click on image to view larger version.

Figure 3 Time-Resolved LV Flow During the Pre-Ejection Phase

(A) Anatomical M-mode through the left ventricle (LV). (B) Two-dimensional snapshots of 4 time frames corresponding to the vertical lines (1 to 4) in panel A. 1, the initial flow during the pre-ejection period is directed from the apex toward the base. 2 and 3, the apex-to-base redirection of blood flow merges with a vortex formed across the edge of a closing anterior mitral leaflet. 4, the apex-to-base movement of intracavitary flow continues further during the period between mitral valve closure and aortic valve opening (isovolumic contraction). LA = left atrium; Vel Mag = velocity magnitude.