ABSTRACT
The left atrium (LA) can be thought of as having some key haemodynamic functions. The LA can be seen in several views: left parasternal window, apical window and subcostal window. Inspect the overall size and shape of the LA, and check for the presence of any masses. Cor triatriatum is a rare congenital abnormality in which the LA is partitioned into two chambers by a membrane, best seen in the apical 4-chamber view. LA diameter is measured at end-systole in the parasternal long axis view, using either 2D or M-mode imaging. The assessment of LA function can be challenging and time-consuming, and is not commonly performed in everyday clinical practice. The most widely used technique for assessing LA function is a volumetric method based upon the LA volume measured at different times. A LA volume index greater than 34 mL/m2 has been shown to be an independent risk factor for death, ischaemic stroke, heart failure and onset of atrial fibrillation.
