An ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement, expressed as a percentage, of how much blood the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction. This measurement is frequently calculated from images obtained via echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, or other imaging modalities. Specialized software or manual calculations based on measured dimensions within the heart chambers are used to derive the EF value.
This percentage is a crucial indicator of heart health, offering insights into the heart’s pumping efficiency and overall function. A normal ejection fraction typically falls between 50% and 70%. Values outside this range can signal underlying heart conditions such as heart failure or cardiomyopathy. Accurate and readily available measurements have significantly improved the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular diseases, allowing clinicians to monitor disease progression and assess treatment efficacy.