What is abnormal septal motion?

Abnormal septal motion (ASM) refers to the unusual or irregular movement of the ventricular septum, the muscular wall that separates the left and right ventricles of the heart. Normally, the septum moves smoothly and symmetrically during the heart's pumping cycle. However, certain conditions or abnormalities can cause the septum to move abnormally.

ASM is often associated with conditions that affect the heart's function or structure. Here are a few examples:

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): ASM can occur when there is a reduction in blood flow to the heart muscle due to CAD. This reduced blood flow can weaken the septum, leading to abnormal movement.

2. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is a condition characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the ventricular septum. The thickened septum can restrict blood flow and cause abnormal septal motion.

3. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): VSD is a hole in the ventricular septum that allows blood to flow abnormally between the left and right ventricles. This abnormal blood flow can cause the septum to move abnormally.

4. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): DCM is a condition where the heart muscle becomes enlarged and weakened. This can lead to abnormal septal motion as the weakened septum struggles to function properly.

5. Arrhythmias: Certain types of arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or bundle branch blocks, can cause abnormal electrical signals in the heart, leading to irregular septal motion.

The presence of ASM is often detected through imaging techniques such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). The extent and severity of ASM can provide valuable information about the underlying heart condition and help guide appropriate treatment.