What is the significance of a left atrial volume index (LAVI) greater than 34 mL/m²?

A left atrial volume index (LAVI) greater than 34 mL/m² is significant because it is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. The left atrium undergoes structural changes in response to conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and valvular heart diseases, which can lead to dilation of the left atrium. Elevated LAVI is a marker of left atrial volume overload, which creates a substrate for arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia that can lead to serious complications, including stroke and heart failure. Therefore, monitoring the LAVI provides important prognostic information regarding the likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation and the overall cardiovascular risk of a patient. Understanding this relationship helps clinicians in risk stratification and management of patients with cardiovascular diseases.