Left ventricular rotational mechanics in children with dilated cardiomyopathy: reverse apical rotation indicates a poor prognosis.

Twenty-three patients with dilated cardiomyopathy were recruited and compared with 10 age-and sex-matched controls using 2D-speckle tracking images of the apex and base of the left ventricle. Follow-up was performed after a period of 6 years. Ten patients with dilated cardiomyopathy presented with diminished rotation and 13 patients presented with reverse apical rotation, which was associated with poorer outcomes.