How to perform

To obtain the best possible images use the phased array probe with a cardiac preset.

Parasternal Long Axis view (PLAX)

Probe position: 3^rd or 4^th intercostal space with the probe marker facing the right shoulder. You will see the following structures:

RVOT = right ventricular outflow tract, LV = left ventricle, IVS = interventricular septum, AO = ascending aorta, PMLV = posterior wall left ventricle, MV = mitral valve, LA = left atrium, PCD = pericardium, DA = descending aorta

Parasternal Short Axis view (PSAX)
Probe position: From the PLAX position, rotate the probe 90^o so the probe marker points towards the left shoulder. You will see the following structures:

IVS = interventricular septum, LV = left ventricle, PmP = posteromedial papillary muscle, AlP = anterolateral papillary muscle, IW = inferior wall of left ventricle.

Apical four chamber view (A4C)

Probe position: Apex point (around the 6^th intercostal space), with the probe marker pointing left. You will see the following structures:

IVS = interventricular septum, RV = right ventricle, LV = left ventricle, TVSL = tricuspid valve septal leaflet, TVAL = tricuspid valve anterior leaflet, RA = right atrium, MVAL = mitral valve anterior leaflet, MVPL = mitral valve posterior leaflet, IAS = interatrial septum, LA = left atrium, LIPV = left inferior pulmonic vein, RSPV = right superior pulmonic vein.

Subcostal (subxiphoid) view

Probe position: Subxiphoid with the probe marker pointing left. You will see the following structures:

RA: Right Atrium, RV: Right Ventricle, LA: Left Atrium, LV: Left ventricle

Learning Bite

You need to push the probe down firmly if bowel gas is getting in the way of your images. Or can you gently massage it away? It is always helpful to ask the patient to bend their knees