Two-dimensional echocardiography makes it possible to study the morphology, pathology, and function of the heart. Significantly depends on the experience of the operator, good knowledge of research technique, hemodynamics, anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the heart.

Many echocardiographic images can be obtained from different approaches. There are several of them (which are the most informative) and are called “Standard Echocardiographic Positions”.

It is not possible to obtain a standard position, in all patients, with the same probe position. The standard position is not the standard position of the transducer - it is the standard image of the heart structures.

The echocardiographic examination is carried out using the following standard approaches:

• Left parasternal approach - III-V intercostal space, on the left side of the sternum.
• Apical approach - The transducer is placed in the area of the apical impulse, or somewhat down and to the left of it.
• Subcostal approach - The lower region of the xiphoid process.
• Suprasternal Approach - Jugular Fossa.

 

2D (B-Mode) Examinations

 

Left Parasternal View:

• Left Parasternal View. Long axis
• Left Parasternal View. Short axis at the level of Ao Valve
• Left Parasternal View. Short axis at the level of Pulmonary Artery
• Left Parasternal View. Short axis at the level of Mitral Valve
• Left Parasternal View. Short axis at the level of Papillary Muscles
• Left Parasternal View. Short axis at the level of Heart Apex

 

Apical View:

• Apical 4 Chamber View
• Apical 5 Chamber View
• Apical 2 Chamber View
• Apical 3 Chamber View

 

Subcostal View:

• Subcostal 4 Chamber View
• Subcostal View of the Inferior Vena Cava
• Subcostal View of the Abdominal Aorta

 

Suprasternal View:

• Suprasternal View. Long axis of aortic Arch
• Suprasternal View. Short axis of aortic Arch

 

How to Simulate Two-dimensional echocardiography (B-Mode)?

 

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