Introduction Optimal performance of the comprehensive two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) examination depends on the interaction between the operator (sonographer and/or physician), instrument (ultrasound system), and patient ( Fig. 11.1 ). This chapter will focus on techniques for optimizing acquisition…
Introduction In the modern echocardiography laboratory, three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (3D-TTE) complements the standard two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiographic (2D-TTE) examination. 3D-TTE adds value, improves workflow, and substantially improves accuracy in the quantification of cardiac chambers by avoiding errors inherent in the geometric…
Introduction This chapter presents the views acquired during the normal two-dimensional (2D) adult comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) examination. These views are based on the standards recommended by the American Society of Echocardiography (see Chapter 8 ). Optimal image acquisition is…
Introduction In the adult two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) examination, a standard series of cross-sectional anatomical views are recommended by the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE). Each echocardiographic view is described using three aspects of the examination, namely (1) the…
Introduction Imaging artifacts encompass patterns in the image that seem to suggest the presence of structures that are in reality not present. They may in fact relate to both the appearance of nonexistent structures, as well as the concealing of…
Introduction Assessment of regional and global ventricular function has long relied on visual assessment. However, this approach is subjective and variable leading to significant interobserver variability in interpretation. The heart is a mechanical organ and undergoes cyclic deformation in systole…
Introduction Since 1974, when the first three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) images of the heart were obtained by Dekker and colleagues, 3DE technology has greatly evolved. The development of the real-time volumetric acquisition technique, along with significant technological advances in computer and…
Introduction Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an additional and complementary method of obtaining ultrasound images of the heart and surrounding structures. A flexible TEE probe is introduced, via the mouth, into the esophagus of the patient. The tip of the TEE…
Introduction Contrast echocardiography is a broad term used to describe an array of approaches that can be used to improve and expand diagnostic capabilities by acoustic enhancement of the blood pool during cardiac ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound contrast agents are generally…
Introduction M-mode echocardiography provides superior temporal resolution, and therefore subtle changes are more readily appreciated with m-mode than with two-dimensional or three-dimensional methods. M-mode methods may include more precise measurement of cardiac chambers (provided they are obtained on-axis), independent motion…