Left atrial volume index predictive of mortality independent of left ventricular geometry in a large clinical cohort with preserved ejection fraction

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect on mortality of the left atrial volume index (LAVI) and left ventricular (LV) geometry (normal, concentric remodeling, eccentric hypertrophy, and concentric hypertrophy). PATIENTS AND METHODS: From January 1, 2004, through December 31, 2006, we evaluated 36,561 patients with preserved ejection fraction with an average follow-up of 1.7±1.0 years. The LAVI was categorized as normal (≤28 mL/m) or increased (mild, 29-33 mL/m; moderate, 34-39 mL/m; severe, ≥40 mL/m). RESULTS: Progressive increases in LAVI and mortality were noted with abnormal LV geometry. Similarly, abnormal LV geometry and mortality were significantly higher in patients with increased LAVI. In patients who died vs surviving patients, the LAVI ± SD was significantly higher (33.0±14.8 vs 28.1±10.8 mL/m;