Background: We have previously shown that LV vortex pulsatility correlates with global LV function. We hypothesized that the dynamic changes of LV vortex flow morphology optimizes LV filling and ejection. The aim of this study was to characterize dynamic changes in LV vortex flow morphology during cardiac cycle in normals and patients with systolic(SHF) and diastolic heart failure(DHF). Methods: 17 normals and 20 patients (13 with SHF and 7 with DHF) underwent 2D contrast echocardiography. LV vorticity was estimated by particle image velocimetry. We measured maximal and minimal vortex flow size(TVS,%) and phasic variation in the vortex flow size(PV-TVS,%) and time to maximum vortex formation(t-MV). Results: Vortex size: Max-TVS was significantly larger in normals than in patients with SHF(p<0.001). Min-TVS was significantly larger in normals than in patients with SHF and DHF(p<0.001). PV-TVS was greater in normals than in patients with SHF (p<0.01). Time: T-MV during diastole was significantly longer in DHF than normal and SHF(p<0.001). Table shows data from all patiens. Conclusion: Phasic changes in vortex flow morphology correlates with global LV function and maybe a sensitive indicator of intracardiac hemodynamics in SHF and DHF.