What constitutes a thorough echocardiogram?

Our Protocol

When assessing a patient, there is a minimum set of images that should be obtained in order to allow a thorough evaluation. An ideal study contains both still images and loops, with basic measurements included through post-processing. This includes 2D, m-mode, Spectral Doppler, and Color Doppler modalities. A simultaneous ECG is considered ideal, although is not mandatory for image interpretation.

Right parasternal long axis

The right parasternal long axis

  • 4 chamber – RA, RV, LA, LV
  • 5 chamber including the aortic valve/LVOT
  • Color flow on the mitral valve
  • Color flow on the aortic valve
  • Color flow on the tricuspid valve and CW Doppler if TR present
  • In congenital cases, color on the interatrial septum and the perimembranous IVS
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Right parasternal short axis

  • LV, 2D and m-mode
  • Base view for LA/Ao
  • Tricuspid valve
  • Color of the tricuspid valve
  • Base view with PA/RVOT outflow
  • Color of PV/RVOT
  • Doppler – PW and CW of PV/RVOT
Left parasternal

Left parasternal

  • Left apical 4 and 5 chamber
  • Color left apical 4 and 5 chamber
  • Doppler of LVOT, especially cats
  • RV/tricuspid valve
  • Color RV tricuspid valve
Left cranial

Left cranial

  • RV/TV (ideally if there is suspicion for a tumor)
  • Color TV and Doppler if TR present