In this thesis the prognostic value of the new echocardiographic techniques 'speckle tracking strain' and 'myocardial work' was evaluated in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and primary... Show moreIn this thesis the prognostic value of the new echocardiographic techniques 'speckle tracking strain' and 'myocardial work' was evaluated in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and primary mitral regurgitation. These parameters were indenpendently associated with outcome in these patients. Furthermore, the pathophysiology and hereditary component of primary mitral valve disease were discussed. Show less