Ejection fraction measures which aspect of ventricular function?

• A. A measure of diastolic function
• B. Assessing systolic function
• C. Unrelated to heart function
• D. Measuring valvular function

Answer: (B)

Ejection fraction shows how effectively the ventricle pumps blood during contraction. It’s calculated as stroke volume divided by end-diastolic volume, expressed as a percentage, so it specifically reflects systolic function—the heart’s ability to eject blood with each beat. A lower EF means weaker pumping, seen in systolic dysfunction such as dilated cardiomyopathy or after a heart attack.

This differs from diastolic function, which is about how the ventricle relaxes and fills; the ejection fraction can be normal even when filling is impaired (diastolic dysfunction). It also isn’t a direct measure of valve function, which concerns how well valves open/close and handle regurgitation or stenosis, though valve disease can influence EF indirectly. Normal EF is typically about 50–70%, with lower values signaling impaired systolic function.