What is the primary purpose of using M-mode in echocardiography?
M-mode (motion mode) echocardiography provides a single-dimensional view of the heart, allowing precise measurements of chamber dimensions, wall thickness, and valve motion over time.
Which echocardiographic view is typically used to assess the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) and aortic valve?
The parasternal long-axis view provides a clear visualization of the left ventricular outflow tract and the aortic valve, allowing assessment of valve morphology and function.
What is the Doppler echocardiography technique primarily used to measure?
Doppler echocardiography measures the velocity and direction of blood flow within the heart and great vessels, helping to assess hemodynamics, valve function, and the presence of stenosis or regurgitation.
Which echocardiographic technique is most useful for evaluating ventricular function and myocardial strain?
Speckle tracking echocardiography is an advanced technique that tracks the motion of speckles (natural acoustic markers) in the myocardium, providing detailed information about ventricular function and myocardial strain.
What is the advantage of using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) over transthoracic echocardiography (TTE)?
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) involves placing a probe in the esophagus, which is closer to the heart than the chest wall, allowing for clearer and more detailed images of posterior cardiac structures, such as the left atrium, atrial septum, and mitral valve.