Question on paradoxical septal motion (PSM)

Hello, I have a question about the phenomenon of paradoxical septal motion (PSM), a common echocardiographic finding after open heart surgery. I've read in one publication that in most cases PSM resolves within the first year after surgery. If the echo of a patient still shows PSM 3 months post surgery, is there a reasonable chance that it will still resolve later, or is the process of healing mostly completed by that time?

Dear Zaq,

Hello and welcome to HealingWell. Yes this forum is active but so far no member seems to have any info re your question.

As I am not familiar with this procedure personally I Googled and found the same question you asked on another site. Here is the info posted on the other forum by a Dr. Singh and the explanation looks very helpful.

"The term paradoxical septal motion (PSM) refers to movement of the interventricular septum towards the right ventricle rather than the left ventricle in systole (during the contraction phase), with normal thickening.

PSM is a common finding after cardiac surgery and the exact underlying cause is still not known. The 2 possible theories which have been given are operation
on the heart alters the degree to which it is restrained by the pericardium(covering of the heart) as the pericardium is surgically cut and there’s anterior mobility of the heart and the chest wall and transient ischemia (compromised blood supply) alters septal motion.

PSM tends to persist for a long time and there’s nothing to be done for the same and hence please don’t worry." Reference: Anand J. Singh , MD
I am sorry you did not recieve a response from any member with personal experience. Take care and I wish you the best.

Gentle Hugs,

Kitt

Dear Zaq,


Here is the link to the article I found and I hope you find it helpful.



http://ehealthforum.com/health/paradoxical-septal-motion-t222718.html



Take care,



Kitt