Left ventricular (LV) pressure-volume (PV) relations of quasi-isobaric contractions around zero transmural pressure were studied with a new volumetric method. Left ventricles of isolated cross-circulated dog hearts were connected to a large air tank through the mitral annulus. The volume of the air space was changed with a volume servo pump to oscillate the transmural pressure (P) around zero. Instantaneous LV volume (V) was computed from P by Boyle's law (P.V = constant) to draw the PV trajectories of the isobaric contractions. The end-systolic PV relation (ESPVR) and end-diastolic PV relation (EDPVR) curves intercepted the volume axis at two different volumes (Vo and Vu, respectively). The slopes of both ESPVR and EDPVR curves as well as Vo and Vu were variably influenced by positive and negative inotropic states, heart rate changes, arrhythmias, ischemia, and rigor. In control before any interventions, LV stroke and suction volume (delta V = Vu - Vo) at zero P was 7.5 +/- 2.5 (SD) ml/100 g left ventricle, which changed with the changes in Vo and Vu. delta V decreased with decreases in P from zero and virtually vanished at a pressure (Pn) of -9.5 +/- 2.0 mm Hg. Directly measured LV dead volume (Vd) at Pn was 4.1 +/- 1.3 ml/100 g. The results seem essential for evaluation of LV filling and suction during diastole.