Echocardiography Standard Protocol | Step by Step | Complete Trans-thoracic Normal Echocardiogram

Dr. M Usman Javed8 minutes read

Perform a thorough transthoracic echocardiography following specific protocols and guidelines to assess various cardiac structures and functions accurately. The echocardiography protocol includes detailed steps for imaging different views, applying color Doppler, and measuring key dimensions to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the heart.

Insights

  • Perform a thorough transthoracic echocardiography following specific guidelines to ensure comprehensive imaging of the heart's structures and functions.
  • Utilize various imaging techniques such as color Doppler and specific views like parasternal long axis and short axis to assess different valves, chambers, and areas of the heart for a detailed evaluation of cardiac health and potential abnormalities.

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Recent questions

  • How should I perform a transthoracic echocardiography?

    Following American Society of Echo standards, attach ECG leads, record various views like parasternal long axis, short axis, apical 4 chamber, 3 chamber, 2 chamber, and subcostal 4 chamber, and use color Doppler on specific valves and structures for a comprehensive assessment.

  • What measurements should be taken during echocardiography?

    Measure LV and aortic valve dimensions, RV inflow and outflow views, LV measurements in diastole and systole, LA and RA areas, IVRT, LVOTVTI, RV thickness, and aorta size to assess cardiac function and structure accurately.

  • Where should I place the ultrasound probe for specific views?

    Place the probe in the 4th left intercostal space pointing towards the right shoulder for parasternal long axis, at aortic valve level for parasternal short axis, at mitral valve level for another parasternal short axis, at heart apex for apical 4 chamber view, and at the suprasternal window for aortic arch visualization.

  • What structures should I focus on during echocardiography?

    Focus on key structures like mitral valve, aortic valve, interventricular septum, tricuspid valve, and various chambers of the heart to assess for any abnormalities, regurgitation, or stenosis that may affect cardiac function.

  • How can I assess for abnormalities during echocardiography?

    Apply color Doppler on specific valves, note wall motion abnormalities, visualize atrial septal defects, and measure various parameters like IVRT and LVOTVTI to identify any structural or functional abnormalities in the heart that may require further evaluation or intervention.

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Summary

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Transthoracic Echocardiography: Complete Protocol Summary

  • Perform complete transthoracic echocardiography following American Society of Echo standards
  • Attach ECG leads before starting
  • Record parasternal long axis with probe in 4th left intercostal space, pointing towards right shoulder
  • Record 2D image of parasternal long axis with increased depth to detect pericardial effusion
  • Apply color Doppler on mitral valve, aortic valve, and interventricular septum
  • Measure LV and aortic valve dimensions, RV inflow, and outflow views, and LV measurements in diastole and systole
  • Record parasternal short axis at aortic valve level, apply color Doppler on aortic and pulmonary valves, and focus on tricuspid valve
  • Record parasternal short axis at mitral valve level, apply color Doppler, and move ultrasound beam apically for mid LV cavity view
  • Obtain apical 4 chamber view at heart apex, record key structures, apply color Doppler on mitral valve, and measure LA and RA areas
  • Record apical 3 chamber view, apply color Doppler on aortic valve, measure IVRT, and record LVOTVTI
  • Record apical 2 chamber view, apply color Doppler on mitral valve, and note for wall motion abnormalities
  • Obtain subcostal 4 chamber view for RV thickness and atrial septal defect assessment, visualize IVC and hepatic veins, and measure aorta
  • Use suprasternal window to visualize aortic arch, apply color Doppler on arch and descending aorta, and measure with Doppler
  • Summary of the full protocol provided for reference in the echolab.
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