1. What is LV Mass Index?

Definition: LV Mass Index (LVMI) is a measurement that adjusts left ventricular mass for body size by dividing by body surface area.

Purpose: It helps cardiologists assess whether the heart's left ventricle is abnormally enlarged (hypertrophied) for a patient's body size.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( LVMI \) — Left ventricular mass index (g/m²)
• \( LVM \) — Left ventricular mass (grams, g)
• \( BSA \) — Body surface area (square meters, m²)

Explanation: The left ventricular mass is normalized to the patient's body size to allow for meaningful comparisons between individuals.

3. Clinical Importance of LVMI

Details: Elevated LVMI is associated with hypertension, aortic stenosis, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It's an independent predictor of cardiovascular events.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the left ventricular mass in grams and body surface area in square meters. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are normal LVMI values for males?
A: Normal range is typically 49-115 g/m², with values >115 indicating left ventricular hypertrophy.

Q2: How is left ventricular mass measured?
A: LVM is typically measured by echocardiography using the Devereux formula or by cardiac MRI.

Q3: Why use BSA instead of weight alone?
A: BSA accounts for both height and weight, providing a more accurate normalization than weight alone.

Q4: Are there different norms for females?
A: Yes, females typically have slightly lower normal ranges (44-95 g/m²).

Q5: What conditions cause elevated LVMI?
A: Hypertension, aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and athletic heart syndrome.