Conventional echocardiogram
BLIND
The echocardiogram was performed by a single experienced operator blind to the allocation group. Commercially available echocardiographic equipment (Vivid E9; GE Medical Systems, Milwaukee, WI, USA) was used, equipped with linear broadband transducers with a frequency of 5-2 MHz. Measurements, and analysis of valve flow and LV diastolic function were performed according to current guidelines.