Accuracy and reproducibility of precordial percussion and palpation for detecting increased left ventricular end-diastolic volume and mass. A comparison of physical findings and ultrafast computed tomography of the heart.

Abstract

Indirect definitive percussion of the precordium is a sensitive and moderately reproducible maneuver for excluding cardiomegaly due to increased LVEDV or LVM. Although measurement of apical impulse diameter was also sensitive in excluding cardiomegaly, lack of a palpable impulse in many patients and low precision between physicians may limit its utility in clinical practice.