Evaluation of Left Atrial Volume and Function with Real-Time 3-Dimensional Echocardiography in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Background: The volume of the left atrium serves as an independent predictor of mortality across a range of medical conditions. Several studies have examined left atrial (LA) changes in dialysis patients using 2-dimensional echocardiogra phy. This study aims to evaluate LA volume and function in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients using real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography. Methods: Twenty-five PD patients and 25 sex- and age-matched controls were included. Since all PD patients had hyper tension, the controls were also selected from people with hypertension. Echocardiography was conducted to assess LA phasic volumes and functional parameters. Results: Left atrial phasic volumes, including maximal volume index, minimal volume index, and pre-atrial contraction volume index, were found to be higher in PD patients. Additionally, the mitral E/e’ ratio, left ventricular (LV) mass index, and deceleration time were elevated in the PD group compared to the control group. Conversely, the septal and lateral E wave velocities were higher in the control group than in PD patients. Left atrial phasic volumes showed a significant correlation with both LV mass index and age. Furthermore, residual kidney function was associated with LA phasic volumes, LV mass index, and the mitral E/e’ ratio. Conclusion: Real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography can identify LA enlargement before clinically overt cardiovascular diseases develop. Early detection of LA enlargement is crucial for preventing the progression of heart failure and minimizing the risk of cardiovascular events.   Cite this article as: Barutçu Ataş D, Ataş H, Kanar B, et al. Evaluation of left atrial volume and function with real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography in peritoneal dialysis patients. Turk J Nephrol. 2026;35(1):72-79.