The subcostal bicaval view
We are familiar with the subcostal 4 chamber and inferior vena cava (IVC) views. There is also something called subcostal bicaval view, where you can visualize both IVC and the […]
Shivering anterior mitral valve leaflet on M-mode
We previously discussed about the mitral valve M-mode in PLAX view and E-point septal separation (EPSS). EPSS is the distance between peak of the E-wave (early diastolic wave) of the […]
Pulmonary veins on cardiac ultrasound
In a recent twitter poll showing this parasternal long axis (PLAX) image, only 36% (N = 301) were able to identify the pulmonary vein. Even though the purpose of POCUS […]
What is LV foreshortening?
This is a commonly heard term in echocardiography. Foreshortening occurs when the ultrasound beam does not cut through the true apex of the left ventricle but transects above and anterior […]
Fluid in the subcostal cardiac view
What does this subcostal view show? In a twitter poll, more than 50% thought its either pericardial effusion or a pericardial tumor. The correct answer is ascites. Subcostal view of […]
Did you ever see on POCUS what hyperkalemia does to the heart?
Hyperkalemia is probably the most common reason for an urgent nephrology consult. Most of us are familiar with the EKG changes associated with hyperkalemia, though surprisingly, only ~55% of patients […]
Pericardial versus pleural effusion on PLAX view
We may find both pericardial and pleural effusions in the parasternal long axis (PLAX) view and mistaking one for the other can lead to inappropriate management. The descending thoracic aorta […]
Other views of the heart
Please refer to ‘Focus on POCUN‘ series on the Renal Fellow Network for brief notes on other echocardiographic windows. Short video on basic cardiac views Video on core pathologies seen […]
PLAX view: Orientation
The parasternal long axis view or the PLAX is obtained by placing the transducer to the left of the sternum in 3rd or 4th intercostal space with the orientation marker […]