Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography via MedWorm.com

Keeping Current in Vascular Imaging

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

As the chair-elect of the Vascular Council Board, I am impressed by ASE's commitment to advancing vascular imaging. Staying current with recent advances in vascular care and imaging can be challenging. This communication highlights activities and resources, particularly within ASE, that will help keep you informed about state-of-the-art vascular imaging. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

A New Career Ladder for Sonographers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

In 2007, ASE sponsored a sonographer needs survey which indicated that 94% of respondents were interested in acquiring information about an educational program providing advanced cardiovascular sonography curriculum, and that 86% of respondents were interested in returning to school to become an advanced cardiovascular sonographer. Since this time, ASE has heard the call to action and supported the development of a new career ladder for sonographers. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

The American Society of Echocardiography is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. ASE recognizes courses as supplements to formal training in an established echocardiographic laboratory. For more information about a course, please call the number listed. To list a course in the Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar, send the date(s), title, location, sponsor, course director(s), and contact information to ASE, Attn: Cheryl Williams, 2100 Gateway Centre Boulevard, Suite 310, Morrisville, NC 27560; Tel: 919-861-5574 x7160; E-mail: cwilliams@asecho.org. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

CPT, CMS, RUC, RBRVS: Why This Alphabet Soup—and Filling Out Surveys—Matters to You and Your Practice!

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

ASE is an active participant in a process that is little understood, but essential to virtually every U.S. based member. It's known as the “RUC process,” a series of meetings of the Relative Value Scale Update Committee, or RUC. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

ASE 2012: Taking the Best of the Past and Making It Better!

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

Registration has opened for the Society’s annual scientific sessions, and we have a fantastic line-up for the meeting. ASE 2012 will be held at National Harbor, MD (just outside Washington, DC) from June 30–July 3. Just as our meeting ends, the Fourth of July celebration begins, and where better to celebrate July 4th than in the nation’s capital, with fairs, parades, concerts and, of course, fireworks over the Potomac? For our overseas attendees, this is a wonderful opportunity to engage in a real American tradition. Come for the meeting; stay for the Fourth! (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Readers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Authors

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Editorial Board

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in Targeted Neonatal Echocardiography: Reply to Letter by Dr. Koestenberger and Dr. Ravekes

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

We thank Drs. Koestenberger and Ravekes for their very valuable comments on our recently published guidelines on targeted neonatal echocardiography. As stated in the guidelines, we indeed recommended the use of quantitative measurements in the assessment of right ventricular function. At the time of the publication of the guidelines, no good reference values for tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion or systolic tissue Doppler velocities were available for neonates and preterm infants. The recent contributions by Dr. Koestenberger’s group fill this gap, as they have published excellent reference data based on a large group of normal term and preterm infants. The availability of Z scores for tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and systolic tissue Doppler velocities provides u...

Predicting the Future in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: From Histopathology To Flow To Function

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:17:37 +0100

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an autosomal dominant disease with both variable penetrance and a wide spectrum of phenotypic expression. Although there are several established risk factors for sudden cardiac death and progression to heart failure, these markers individually have low positive predictive value and only modestly high negative predictive value. Although the exact mechanisms are incompletely understood as yet, underlying abnormalities of myocardial architecture are thought to play a role in arrhythmogenesis and left ventricular (LV) remodeling. Alterations in myocardial structure at both macroscopic and microscopic levels predispose to myocardial ischemia, which may be associated with such complications as LV remodeling and progression to systolic dysfunction and heart fa...

Right Ventricular Function Parameters in the Neonatal Population

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

We read with interest the expert consensus statement “Targeted Neonatal Echocardiography in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Practice Guidelines and Recommendations for Training” from the writing group of the American Society of Echocardiography in collaboration with the European Association of Echocardiography and the Association for European Pediatric Cardiologists by Mertens et al. In our opinion, this is an excellent statement describing the current indications for targeted neonatal echocardiography (TNE), defining recommendations for the performance of TNE, and proposing training requirements for operators performing and interpreting TNE. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Critical Care Ultrasound: Coming Soon to an ICU Near You

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

Daniel Boorstin, once the librarian of the Congress, said “Knowledge is not simply another commodity. On the contrary, knowledge is never used up. It increases by diffusion and grows by dispersion.” It seems that this is the case with ultrasound technology, which feels as if it is in use everywhere. Weathermen use it to predict hurricanes, state troopers use it to write speeding tickets, and nowadays we, in medicine, seem to use it ubiquitously. Historically, ultrasound was first utilized in the echocardiography laboratory, with quick migration into the cardiac catherization laboratory, the vascular suites, obstetric practices, cardiac operating rooms, and now more commonly in the non-cardiac operating rooms. Today, pain specialists regularly use it for guidance with peripheral nerve b...

Thanks and Best Wishes to Alan D. Waggoner

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

This month’s Sonography Council Yellow Pages mark a bitter-sweet moment in the history of echocardiography. One of our beloved colleagues, Alan Waggoner, has decided that it is time to retire. Al is one of the most respected, most experienced, and certainly most published sonographers in our community, and his contributions to the field are tremendous. He has been a sonographer for over 38 years and has seen cardiac sonography grow from its infancy to its current state. Al has been a mentor to many of us, and he has worked hard to raise the level of professionalism to where we are today. He has served as chair of the Sonography Council, associate editor of the JASE, received the ASE Distinguished Teacher Award, and had the Alan D. Waggoner Sonographer Student Scholarship named after him ...

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

Guidelines and standards: The DNA of a professional society and our field

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

Guidelines are a lot like DNA. They are the building blocks for all that ASE is and does, yet guidelines and standards, and the committee that oversees their creation, can all too easily be overlooked in the face of glitzier and more public activities like our educational meetings and Scientific Sessions. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Readers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Authors

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Editorial Board

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Happy Birthday, JASE!

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:58 +0100

Astute readers will realize that it has been quite some time since I dusted off my pen and wrote a short article for the Editor’s Page. However, I have been shaken out of my torpor by the start of a new year, and the auspicious occasion that will accompany the arrival of January 2012. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Measuring Carotid Artery Intima-Media Thickness: Simplicity Versus Complexity?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:57 +0100

We believe that the report by Peters et al. in this issue of JASE makes a significant contribution to our understanding of how to perform carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) measurements in clinical trials and possibly in clinical practice. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Left Ventricular Curvature Analysis: A New Approach to Left Ventricular Remodeling with Clinical Applications to Be Discovered

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:57 +0100

Left ventricular (LV) remodeling is a serious process that may lead to fatal heart failure and can be caused by many cardiovascular diseases, such as ischemic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, valvular disease, and others. Several pathophysiologic processes have been demonstrated to take part in this complex process. For instance, cardiomyocyte apoptosis is increased in remodeled ventricles in patients with ischemic and dilated cardiomyopathy, with as much as 2% of cardiomyocyte nuclei being apoptotic at the same time. Myocyte hypertrophy and increased interstitial collagen are also found. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Automated Measurement of Stroke Volumes by Real-Time Three-Dimensional Doppler Echocardiography: Coming of Age?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:57 +0100

Conventional Doppler echocardiography, including pulsed-wave, continuous-wave, and color-flow Doppler techniques, is an integral component of an echocardiographic study for the diagnosis and assessment of cardiovascular disease. It is used routinely to provide hemodynamic information for flow measurement, diastolic function, estimation of right-sided pressures, pressure gradients and valve areas, valve regurgitation, shunt lesions, and prosthetic valves, to name a few, that would otherwise require invasive investigation. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

EAE/ASE Recommendations for Image Acquisition and Display Using Three-Dimensional Echocardiography

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:57 +0100

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Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography: 25 Years Old

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:45:57 +0100

It is hard to believe that with the January 2012 issue of JASE, we will reach a milestone. This journal now is 25 years old. As with life in general, it’s amazing how quickly time passes. Celebrating a milestone is always bittersweet. It reminds all of us how quickly time goes by. It also offers an opportunity to stop and reflect backward and look forward. The journal and the field of echocardiography have undergone dramatic transformations over the past 25 years. One of the few advances for which I personally take some credit is that both the field and the journal are now digital. The Indiana University echocardiography lab went digital in 1984. From 1984 to 1991, the storage of echocardiograms was on floppy disks. A digital network went live on July 1, 1991. I am proud to say that JAS...

Neonatal Echocardiography—Different Approaches in Different Continents: Reply to a Letter by Evans and Kluckow

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

We thank Drs. Evans and Kluckow for their interest in our recently published guidelines for neonatal echocardiography. We read their comments with interest, and we take note of the differences between their approach and the one outlined in the combined North American–European initiative. The aim of our writing group was to define minimum standards for neonatal echocardiography to guarantee high-quality diagnostic imaging performed by well-trained professionals. This was based on a collaborative model between cardiologists and neonatologists. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

The Importance of Being Expert: Is It Time to Revisit the Concept?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Experience matters in medicine. In the current era of lengthy training programs and sub-subspecialization, this statement is hard to dispute. The concept that experience matters is not limited to medicine, having also permeated popular culture. Malcolm Gladwell's book Outliers, published in 2008, stresses the importance of repetition in achieving excellence, citing a pioneering study by Ericsson et al. demonstrating the relationship between hours of practice and skill level among musicians. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Neonatology Concerns about the TNE Consensus Statement

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

There is much within the targeted neonatal echocardiography (TNE) consensus statement we endorse, particularly the clinical indications, the need for training structures, and the importance of collaboration with other specialties involved in imaging, especially pediatric cardiology. However, we have concerns. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Characterization of Patients with Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Because of high spatial resolution and accuracy in volumetric quantification, three-dimensional echocardiography allows accurate measurement of the extent of noncompacted myocardium and identification of patients with LVNC. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

The Role of Echocardiography in the Management of Patients Supported by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Extracorporeal life support can be viewed as a spectrum of modalities based on modifications of a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit to provide cardiac and respiratory support, which can be used for extended periods, from hours to several weeks. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is among the most frequently used forms of extracorporeal life support. It can be configured for venovenous blood flow, to provide adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal in isolated refractory respiratory failure, or in a venoarterial configuration, when support is required for cardiac and/or respiratory failure. Echocardiography plays a fundamental role throughout the entire journey of a patient supported on ECMO. It provides information that assists in patient selection, guides the insertion and pla...

Impact of a Dedicated Training Program on the Reproducibility of Systolic Dyssynchrony Measures Using Tissue Doppler Imaging

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: There is a learning curve for the measurement of systolic dyssynchrony using Doppler tissue imaging, but good reproducibility can be achieved by the use of a dedicated training program. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Prognostic Value of Exercise Echocardiography in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Assessment of exercise capacity and LV systolic function during exercise echocardiography may have a role in risk stratification of patients with HCM. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Comprehensive Hemodynamic Assessment of 305 Normal CarboMedics Mitral Valve Prostheses Based on Early Postimplantation Echocardiographic Studies

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This study establishes parameters (mean ± 2 SD) defining the distribution of findings for Doppler-derived hemodynamic data with normal CM mechanical mitral valve prostheses. Prostheses with hemodynamic values outside these parameters are likely dysfunctional; however, prosthesis dysfunction may be present even when hemodynamic values are within these ranges. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Alteration in Subendocardial and Subepicardial Myocardial Strain in Patients with Aortic Valve Stenosis: An Early Marker of Left Ventricular Dysfunction?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Bilayer ratio can reliably differentiate patients with varying degrees of AS severity and is a sensitive marker of LV function. These findings suggest that the evaluation of subendocardial and subepicardial radial strain might be a novel method for assessing LV mechanics in patients with AS. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

ASE Committees—Get Involved!

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

Many council members have asked about how they can become involved in ASE. One of the best ways is through participation as a council representative on an ASE committee. These representatives add unique insights and perspectives to the direction and policies generated by these committees. I felt it would be timely to review the various ASE committees and our current committee representation, as I hope to include as many of our council members as possible on these committees. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

A Year in Advocacy

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

A note from Council Chair Ken Horton, RCS, RDCS, FASE: As 2011 comes to an end, I thought it a good time to look back at the advocacy issues the ASE has dealt with this year. It is important for sonographers to understand the importance of the work done by the Advocacy Committee, as changes made to legislation and reimbursement will have direct and significant impact on our profession, and this committee monitors these changes and works diligently to protect the interests of our members. I asked Sue Maisey and Elizabeth McIlwain, sonographers active on the Advocacy Committee, to summarize the year in advocacy. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

The American Society of Echocardiography is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. ASE recognizes courses as supplements to formal training in an established echocardiographic laboratory. For more information about a course, please call the number listed. To list a course in the Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar, send the date(s), title, location, sponsor, course director(s), and contact information to ASE, Attn: Cheryl Williams, 2100 Gateway Centre Boulevard, Suite 310, Morrisville, NC 27560; Tel: 919-861-5574 x7160; E-mail:cwilliams@asecho.org. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Giving Thanks

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

It’s the holiday season, a time to hope our busy lives will slow down just a little bit and a special time to spend with family and friends. I’ll be spending Christmas in Norway, a place that’s been celebrating winter holidays for millennia. It’s cold and snowy and very dark, with the sun peeking over the horizon for just a few hours a day (if at all). But it’s also very festive, with candles lining the streets, cross-country skiing by day, and parties by night, featuring some very special food….fermented trout, anyone? (If you’re interested, it’s called rok orret.) The holidays are also a time for giving thanks for all the year has brought us. At the ASE, we have much to be thankful for, and I’d like to express my gratitude to our dedicated staff and volunteer members wh...

Information for Readers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Authors

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Editorial Board

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

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Index to Subjects∗

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

Ablation; see Catheter ablation Acceleration (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Index to Authors∗

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

Aakhus S (see Haugaa et al). 2011;24:644-50 Aase SA (see Dalen et al). 2011;24:322-32 (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Anywhere, Anytime?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

“I will go anywhere, provide it be forward.”– David Livingstone (1813-1873) Since its introduction by Edler and Hertz in 1954 echocardiography has become an indispensable tool in clinical decision making. Numerous cardiology guidelines rely on echocardiographic findings and underline the importance of echocardiography as a simple, inexpensive, and easily accessible technique for cardiac imaging. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Guidelines for Performing Ultrasound Guided Vascular Cannulation: Recommendations of the American Society of Echocardiography and the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:44:40 +0100

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Limitations of Current Echocardiographic Nomograms for Left Ventricular, Valvular, and Arterial Dimensions in Children: A Critical Review

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

An echocardiographic quantitative evaluation of the cardiac and vascular structures is often of critical importance for the diagnosis and management of congenital heart diseases. The authors reviewed the accuracy and limits of published echocardiographic nomograms for cardiac chamber, valve, and main vessel dimensions in children, with special attention to the neonatal age group. A computerized literature search in the National Library of Medicine using the keywords “echocardiographic normal/references values ± children/neonates/newborns” was performed. The research was redefined adding separately the keywords “aortic valve/annulus,” “aortic arch,” “atrio-ventricular valve/annulus,” “left ventricle,” “mitral valve/annulus,” “pulmonary valve/annulus,” “pulmon...

Automated Quantification of Mitral Inflow and Aortic Outflow Stroke Volumes by Three-Dimensional Real-Time Volume Color-Flow Doppler Transthoracic Echocardiography: Comparison with Pulsed-Wave Doppler and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: RT-VCFD imaging with an automated quantification algorithm is feasible, accurate, and reproducible for the measurement of mitral inflow and aortic SVs and is superior to manual 2D TTE–based measurements. The rapid and automated measurements make this technique practical in the clinical setting to measure and report SVs routinely where the acoustic window will allow it, which was 86% in our study. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Assessment of Transmitral Vortex Formation in Patients with Diastolic Dysfunction

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Background: Previous experimental models have related transmitral vortex formation to the longitudinal recoil of left ventricle. However, little is known about the relationships among left ventricular (LV) longitudinal relaxation, transmitral filling patterns, and LV vortex formation in clinical settings. The aim of this study was to compare the vortex formation time index among a heterogeneous group of patients with diastolic dysfunction to understand the relationship between transmitral vortex formation and abnormal diastolic filling patterns.Methods: Echocardiographic data from 107 subjects were retrospectively evaluated. The study population was categorized into four groups on the basis of transmitral early and late diastolic Doppler filling patterns as normal (n = 45), impaired rela...

Evaluation of Global Left Ventricular Systolic Function Using Three-Dimensional Echocardiography Speckle-Tracking Strain Parameters

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Of all strain parameters, new 3DE area strain correlated best with common LV systolic function parameters and is thus the most promising approach, while all 3DE strain markers exhibited good reproducibility. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Left Ventricular Outflow Tract: Intraoperative Measurement and Changes Caused by Mitral Valve Surgery

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The eccentric LVOT shape leads to a distinct underestimation of its area with two-dimensional measurements. LVOT eccentricity is less distinct in patients with low ejection fractions and higher end-systolic volumes. LVOT width is decreased through annuloplasty rings and prostheses, and the smaller the implanted device, the more profound the reduction. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Mitral Regurgitation in Patients Referred for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Using the Edwards Sapien Prosthesis: Mechanisms and Early Postprocedural Changes

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In patients referred for TAVI, MR is common, mainly organic, and rarely severe. After TAVI, MR improved within 7 days in both organic and functional MR, was not influenced by overlap of the anterior mitral leaflet and the device, but was associated with improvement in LV ejection fraction. Possible MR improvement should be taken into account in patient selection for TAVI especially, in cases of LV dysfunction or enlargement and MR of borderline severity. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Reproducibility of Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The reproducibility of making measurements to diagnose LVNC by accepted criteria is poor. Heart transplantation and death are associated with significant ventricular dysfunction and not with increased trabeculations or NC/C ratios. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Coronary and Microvascular Thrombolysis with Guided Diagnostic Ultrasound and Microbubbles in Acute ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Guided high–mechanical index impulses from a diagnostic transducer and nontargeted microbubbles improve peri-infarct microvascular flow in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, even when epicardial recanalization does not occur. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Impact of Preoperative Anterior Leaflet Tethering on the Recurrence of Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation and the Lack of Left Ventricular Reverse Remodeling after Restrictive Annuloplasty

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Anterior mitral leaflet tethering is a powerful predictor of MR recurrence and lack of LVRR after undersized mitral ring annuloplasty. Evaluation of leaflet tethering should be incorporated into clinical risk assessment and prediction models. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Circumferential and Longitudinal Ventricular Strain in the Normal Human Fetus

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This is the first study to report normal fetal LV circumferential strain. These data may be useful as a reference for assessing fetal cardiac function. The retrospective study design and relatively low frame rates used in this study were important limitations. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Update on Vascular Sessions at Recent Conferences

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

Susana Perese, BS, RVT, FASE Director, Noninvasive CardioVascular Diagnostic Services, USC Cardiovascular Thoracic Institute, Los Angeles, California (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Scholarships and Travel Grants Can Launch Careers and Change Lives

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

Although the 2012 ASE Scientific sessions are still 8 months away, planning is well under way, and this month there are some important deadlines to add to your calendars. One of the main goals of the ASE is to be the source for cardiovascular ultrasound education. All practicing sonographers need to stay current with technology and techniques, and we hope that you turn to the many resources the ASE has to offer as your main source of continuing education. The ASE has several opportunities for sonographer students to receive financial assistance for their education and/or provide some assistance to attend the annual ASE Scientific Sessions. The deadline to apply for these awards/scholarships is November 30, 2011. I encourage you to encourage and assist the student sonographers in your progr...

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

Protecting the Profession: ASE's Advocacy Challenge

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

Many of us have jam-packed days as physicians and sonographers, seeing patients, performing clinical and research studies, teaching, publishing, and handling the myriad responsibilities encompassed by ASE's members. It's easy to leave the work of protecting reimbursement of cardiovascular ultrasound to others. ASE's mission in advocacy is to represent the interests of our members and patients, while advocating to create an environment for excellence in the practice of cardiovascular ultrasound. We work to represent echocardiography on Capitol Hill, to regulatory agencies, and to private payers. We need your help on all of these fronts! (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Readers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Authors

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Editorial Board

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Mitral Valve Repair and Annular Motion: Is Less Really More?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

In North America, approximately 10,000 isolated primary mitral valve (MV) operations are performed annually, with increasing rates of MV repair. There are substantial advantages of MV repair compared with MV replacement in patients with degenerative MV disease, including lower operative mortality, improved left ventricular (LV) function, lower risk for stroke and infection, fewer complications related to anticoagulation therapy, and superior long-term survival. During the past few decades, repair techniques have evolved and improved, with different centers reporting excellent long-term results for degenerative MV disease. Current American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association guidelines for the management of patients with valvular heart disease recommend surgery for asymptom...

Quality Is Job One, and Our Patients and Our Profession Deserve It

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:47:02 +0100

In 1982, one of America’s “big three” automotive companies launched the marketing slogan “Quality is job one,” which really became its mission statement—and yes, there is a difference between a marketing slogan and a mission statement. Over the past 10 years, the concept of continuous quality improvement has dramatically improved and influenced the practice of medicine in the United States, and the issue of quality and its performance strikes at the very heart of medicine today. Idealistically, the goal of health care, whether practiced by a nursing assistant, a physician’s assistant, an allied health professional, or a physician, should, first and foremost, be to provide the highest quality compassionate care to each and every patient. But make no mistake about it: medicine ...

Epicardial Adipose Tissue Relating to Anthropometrics, Metabolic Derangements and Fatty Liver Disease Independently Contributes to Serum High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Beyond Body Fat Composition: A Study Validated with Computed Tomography

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) measured by echocardiography has been proposed to be associated with metabolic syndrome and increased cardiovascular risks. However, its independent association with fatty liver disease and systemic inflammation beyond clinical variables and body fat remains less well known.Methods: The relationships between EAT and various factors of metabolic derangement were retrospectively examined in consecutive 359 asymptomatic subjects (mean age, 51.6 years; 31% women) who participated in a cardiovascular health survey. Echocardiography-derived regional EAT thickness from parasternal long-axis and short-axis views was quantified. A subset of data from 178 randomly chosen participants were validated using 16-slice multidetector computed tomography. Body fat...

Effects of Mild Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation on Ventricular Remodeling and Its Contribution to Congestive Heart Failure

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Mild IMR affects the LV remodeling process, increases its degree over time, and determines a higher rate of HF. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Does the Revised Appropriate Use Criteria for Echocardiography Represent an Improvement Over the Initial Criteria? A Comparison between the 2011 and the 2007 Appropriateness Use Criteria for Echocardiography

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Compared with the 2007 AUC for transthoracic echocardiography, application of the recently revised 2011 criteria leads to a significant decrease in the number of studies that are not classified, demonstrating that the AUC revision was successful in achieving the goal of addressing more clinical indications. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Echocardiographic Diagnosis and Prognosis of Fetal Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Fetuses with LVNC have a poor prognosis that may be related to associated congenital heart disease, increased segmental involvement of noncompaction, and complete heart block and can be predicted by the cardiovascular profile score. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Contrast Stress-Echocardiography Predicts Cardiac Events in Patients with Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome but Nondiagnostic Electrocardiogram and Normal 12-Hour Troponin

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: cMCE during contrast stress echocardiography provided independent information for predicting hard and combined cardiac events beyond that predicted by stress wall motion abnormalities in patients with suspected ACS, nondiagnostic ECG findings, and normal troponin levels. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Geometric Assessment of Regional Left Ventricular Remodeling by Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Shape Analysis Correlates with Left Ventricular Function

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate that regional remodeling measured by regional 3D LV curvature correlates well with LV function. As well, this methodology is independent of the geometric assumptions that limit the predictive value of two-dimensional echocardiographic measures of LV remodeling. Overall, this is a novel tool that may have applications in the assessment and prediction of outcomes of different forms of dilated cardiomyopathy. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Biventricular Performance in Patients with Marfan Syndrome without Significant Valvular Disease: Comparison to Normal Subjects and Longitudinal Follow-Up

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This study suggests that patients with Marfan syndrome show lower ventricular strain and strain rate values compared with healthy controls. However, no relevant changes in LV and RV function occurred during midterm follow-up in patients with Marfan syndrome without valvular disease at baseline. Although ventricular strain and strain rate were mildly reduced in patients with Marfan syndrome, this did not affect outcomes negatively in the present study. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Effects of Aortic Valve Replacement on Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony in Aortic Stenosis with Narrow QRS Complex

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: LV dyssynchrony is not uncommon in patients with AS with narrow QRS complexes and is reversible early after AVR, suggesting the favorable effect of afterload reduction on dyssynchronous LV contraction. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Value of Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography for Prediction of Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated by Primary Percutaneous Intervention

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In patients with STEMI treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention, the frequency of LVr during 3-month follow-up was high and mainly affected the population with anterior wall myocardial infarction. The results of this study show the clinical value of global longitudinal strain measured by speckle-tracking echocardiography in the prediction of LVr. A moderate correlation was found between the value of peak longitudinal strain and changes in subvolumes attributed to irreversibly dysfunctional segments. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Apex to Base Left Ventricular Twist Mechanics Computed from High Frame Rate Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Echocardiography: A Comparison Study

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Although 3D echocardiography showed smaller bias, the results between 2D and 3D echocardiography were comparable. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Extensive or Restricted Ultrasound Protocols to Measure Carotid Intima-Media Thickness: Analysis of Completeness Rates and Impact on Observed Rates of Change Over Time

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: High levels of complete data can be obtained with extensive ultrasound protocols that include measurement from the carotid bifurcation and internal carotid artery. A high body mass index contributes to incompleteness of CIMT measurements. Extensive ultrasound protocols are required to obtain the highest precision to observe a treatment effect and to fully cover the degree of atherosclerotic burden. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

A Novel Echocardiographic Parameter for Predicting the Ischemic Etiology of Cardiomyopathy and Its Prognosis in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: A high degree of heterogeneity of e′, expressed as Ve′, provides incremental value over clinical variables and conventional echocardiography to predict the prevalence of low left ventricular ejection fractions patients with ICM. Furthermore, elevated Ve′ could also identify patients at a high risk for cardiac mortality. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Prognostic Impact of Left Ventricular Mass Severity According to the Classification Proposed by the American Society of Echocardiography/European Association of Echocardiography

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In a cohort study of unselected adult outpatients, the categorization of LV mass according to the ASE/EAE recommendations offered prognostic information independently of age, gender, and other known predictors. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Three-Dimensional Echocardiography in Paravalvular Aortic Regurgitation Assessment after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This study proposes an alternative methodology for paravalvular AR assessment after TAVI. Using vena contracta planimetry on 3D TTE, an accurate methodology for paravalvular AR jet evaluation and moderate AR classification is described. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Changes of Right Ventricular Function and Longitudinal Deformation in Children with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome before and after the Norwood Operation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Two-dimensional global and regional longitudinal strain and strain rate as well as tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion were reduced in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome after the Norwood operation. None of the examined preoperative and postoperative patient or surgical factors was found to explain this decrease. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Evaluation of Ventricular Filling Pressures and Ventricular Function by Doppler Echocardiography in Patients with Functional Single Ventricle: Correlation with Simultaneous Cardiac Catheterization

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In patients with single-ventricle physiology, DTI and pulmonary vein Doppler echocardiographic parameters correlated modestly with direct measurement of VEDP and may be helpful in identifying patients with elevated filling pressures. In addition, single left ventricles had better systolic and diastolic performance than single right ventricles. DTI systolic velocities and left ventricular MPI correlated well with ventricular ejection fraction. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Improvement in the Assessment of Diastolic Function in a Clinical Echocardiography Laboratory Following Implementation of a Quality Improvement Initiative

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: A multifaceted quality improvement protocol including staff education, systematic support with enhanced infrastructure, and peer review with feedback can be effective for improving the clinical performance of a nonacademic echocardiography laboratory in the characterization of diastolic function. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Mitral Annulus Dynamics Early after Valve Repair: Preliminary Observations of the Effect of Resectional Versus Non-Resectional Approaches

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The size of the mitral annulus is reduced after repair with either surgical approach. Compared with resectional valve repair, more dynamic changes in the structure of the mitral annulus are maintained during the cardiac cycle with the NVR technique early postoperatively, along with more preserved motion of the posterior leaflet. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Comparison of Semiquantitative and Quantitative Assessment of Severity of Aortic Regurgitation: Clinical Implications

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: For the assessment of AR severity, current thresholds appear specific but poorly sensitive, except for vena contracta, which provides good discriminative value. Semiquantitative methods should be integrated into the comprehensive evaluation of AR severity, but severe AR should not be excluded only on the basis of semiquantitative criteria. These results emphasize the need for the quantitative assessment of AR severity. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

The New Paradigm for the Management of Valvular Heart Disease: the Multi-Disciplinary Heart Team

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

The relationship between surgeons and anesthesiologists or surgeons and cardiologists can often be at best commensal, but at worst adversarial. These interactions also occur within cardiology between interventional cardiologists and non-invasive cardiologists. With the recent introduction of transcatheter therapies for valvular heart disease, the atmosphere here at Columbia University Medical Center has become one of collaboration and cooperation. These new relationships have created the foundation for the success of the Valvular Heart Disease Center and the transcatheter aortic valve program. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Council on Cardiovascular Sonographer Travel Grants

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

Over the past several years the Council on Cardiovascular Sonography has received many inquiries as to why we do not have travel grants available to sonographers to attend the ASE Scientific Sessions as do the other councils. I am happy to say that last year a decision was made by our Council to establish two travel grants available to help subsidize sonographer attendance at the ASE Scientific Sessions. The ASE Sonographer Council Travel Grant is for any sonographer member (adult, pediatric, echo, and/or vascular) to help fund his or her travel to the ASE Scientific Sessions. This is part of an ongoing effort to encourage sonographers in cardiovascular specialties to focus on the respective subspecialty and to recruit enthusiastic new members to the Sonographer Council membership. In addi...

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

Education and ASE

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

How's the weather where you are? Are those cold north winds beginning to blow? Cleveland in October is an exercise in transition, with a few days that make you think summer will never end, followed swiftly by a reminder that 6 months of clouds and snow are close on our heels. And when you're in the depths of winter in January or February, wouldn't a few days of fun, sun, and echo education lift your spirits? ASE offers two superb courses in midwinter: Echo Hawaii on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island from January 23–27, 2012, and State-of-the-Art Echocardiography in Scottsdale, Arizona, February 11–15, 2012. Both offer superb multi-day programs in elegant, though surprisingly affordable, surroundings. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Readers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Authors

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Editorial Board

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Erratum

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

In the article entitled "Improved Semiautomated Quantification of Left Ventricular Volumes and Ejection Fraction Using 3-Dimensional Echocardiography with a Full Matrix-array Transducer: Comparison with Magnetic Resonance Imaging," (J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2005;18:779-788) the name of one of the authors was listed incorrectly. The correct listing is Juan Luis Gutiérrez-Chico, MD. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Echocardiography in Mitral Regurgitation with Relevance to Valve Surgery

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:19 +0100

A formal collaboration was established in 1999 between the authors, an echocardiologist (P.M.S.) and a cardiothoracic surgeon (A.A.R.), to evaluate and provide state-of-the-art surgical treatment for valvular heart disease with an emphasis on mitral valve repair. The collaborative plan consists of jointly reviewing all preoperative transthoracic echocardiographic and transesophageal echocardiographic images with an emphasis on quantification and pathologic anatomy of the mitral valve. Nearly every intraoperative transesophageal echocardiographic study was performed by the same echocardiologist (P.M.S.) before and immediately after attempted valve repair. The surgeon (A.A.R.) systematically evaluated the valve anatomy. Any discrepancies between echocardiographic and surgical anatomy were jo...

Targeted Neonatal Echocardiography in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Practice Guidelines and Recommendations for Training: Writing group of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) in collaboration with the European Association of Echocardiography (EAE) and the Association for European Pediatric Cardiologists (AEPC)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:34:18 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Interpretation of Remotely Downloaded Pocket-Size Cardiac Ultrasound Images on a Web-Enabled Smartphone: Validation Against Workstation Evaluation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Remote expert echocardiographic interpretation can provide backup support to point-of-care diagnosis by nonexperts when read on a dedicated smartphone-based application. Mobile-to-mobile consultation may improve access in previously inaccessible locations to accurate echocardiographic interpretation by experienced cardiologists. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

The Impact of Pulmonary Regurgitation on Right Ventricular Regional Myocardial Function: An Echocardiographic Study in Adults after Total Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Adults after TOF repair have decreased regional deformation of the right ventricle and intraventricular septum. Prior palliative treatment reduces the indices of right ventricular regional deformation. PR severity can be described by the extent of right ventricular regional deformation. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Echocardiographic Assessment of Right Ventricular Volumes after Surgical Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot: Clinical Validation of a New Echocardiographic Method

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In patients after TOF repair, echocardiographic 3D reconstruction is highly feasible, with good reproducibility for measurements of RV EDV. There is good agreement with MRI measurements, with a small underestimation of RV volumes. The use of this method in clinical practice warrants further investigation. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Segmental Analysis of Carotid Arterial Strain Using Speckle-Tracking

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Speckle-tracking to measure CAS is feasible and modestly reliable. Patients with diabetes had lower CAS obtained with speckle-tracking compared with healthy controls. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Is It Really the First Marker of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy?

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Diastolic dysfunction diagnosed according to current recommendations is frequent in patients with DM but is also influenced by other factors. Systolic strain alteration may exist despite normal diastolic function, indicating that diastolic dysfunction should not be considered the first marker of a preclinical form of diabetic cardiomyopathy. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Detection of Left Ventricular Dysfunction by Global Longitudinal Systolic Strain in Patients with Chronic Aortic Regurgitation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The study demonstrated reduced global longitudinal strain in patients with chronic AR with preserved LV ejection fractions. Global longitudinal strain might therefore disclose incipient myocardial dysfunction with a consequent potential for improved timing of aortic valve surgery. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Real-Time Three-Dimensional Echocardiography: Segmental Analysis of the Right Ventricle in Patients with Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Patients with repaired ToF show characteristic RV remodeling as assessed with RT3DE. At the apical trabecular region, the largest volumes were observed compared with control patients, whereas EF at the inlet and outlet components was significantly impaired. RT3DE may facilitate future studies of segmental RV volumes and function in patients with repaired ToF. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Bedside Hand-Carried Ultrasound by Internal Medicine Residents Versus Traditional Clinical Assessment for the Identification of Systolic Dysfunction in Patients Admitted with Decompensated Heart Failure

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Background: The rapid detection of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) is an important step in the clinical management of patients admitted with acute decompensated heart failure, because it allows the initiation of treatment specific to LVSD and avoidance of contraindicated therapies. The aim of this study was to determine whether internal medicine residents with limited ultrasound training could use hand-carried ultrasound (HCU) to identify LVSD.Methods: Fifty patients admitted with acute decompensated heart failure were imaged from the parasternal window at the bedside with an HCU device by residents blinded to all clinical data, who had undergone limited cardiac ultrasound training (20 practice studies). Ejection fraction (EF) on HCU was graded as >40% or (Source: Journal of t...

Abnormalities in Cardiac Structure and Function in Adults with Sickle Cell Disease are not Associated with Pulmonary Hypertension

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Ambulatory adults with SCD exhibited structural (i.e., LV and RV chamber enlargement) and functional (i.e., higher surrogate measures of LV and RV filling pressure) abnormalities compared with the control group. In subjects with SCD, few abnormalities of LV and RV structure and function were associated with TRJ velocity. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Different Patterns of Adaptation of the Right Ventricle to Pressure Overload: A Comparison between Pulmonary Hypertension and Pulmonary Stenosis

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: At similar levels of pressure overload, the right ventricle is less dilated and performs better in patients with PS compared with those with PAH. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Update on Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease Council Activities and Directions for the Future

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

This is my first council communication as chair of the ASE's Council on Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and look forward to another productive two years for our council. I want to first express my gratitude to Wyman Lai, MD, MPH, FASE for the wonderful job he did as chair these past 2 years. Dr. Wyman has set the bar exceeding high, and I look forward to continuing these initiatives as well as developing many new ones. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Highlights of the 23nd Annual Scientific Sessions—A Sonographer's Perspective

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

The Scientific Sessions in Montreal were well attended, with approximately 3,100 attendees. The sonography tracts were at capacity or overflowing and, according to the initial review of evaluations, extremely successful. The following are highlights of popular sonography sessions and special events. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

22nd Annual Scientific Sessions Highlights, June 11–14, 2011

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

Research, Innovation, Translation, Advocacy, Standardization

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

Have you ever thought about everything that goes into generating an ultrasound picture…all the basic research into ultrasound physics; the applied research to engineer an imaging machine; the regulatory work to get it approved for clinical work? It is a remarkable chain of interlinked events, and ASE is playing a critical role in this process. No, we haven't built an acoustics laboratory at our headquarters, but we are critically involved in driving the technology forward in many different ways. In this President's Message, I'd like to let you know about some recent and ongoing initiatives of your Society to drive ultrasound technology forward. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Readers

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Information for Authors

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Editorial Board

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:38 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Echocardiographic Assessment of Fabry Cardiomyopathy: Early Diagnosis and Follow-Up

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:37 +0100

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.—Albert Einstein Fabry disease (FD) is a rare X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficient activity of the enzyme α-galactosidase A. It is characterized by severe systemic involvement that ultimately leads to major organ failure and premature death in affected men and women. In fact, although FD was initially considered an X-linked recessive disorder, it is now widely accepted that heterozygous female patients can be severely affected. Although progression of the disease to organ failure generally occurs later in life, and symptom severity tends to be milder and more variable than in male patients, clinical manifestations in female carriers may range from a relative asymptomatic condition to severe symptoms man...

Evaluation of Aortic Stenosis Severity: New Challenges, New Solutions

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:35 +0100

Aortic stenosis (AS) is now very frequently encountered, to the extent that aortic valve replacement (AVR) has become the second most frequently performed cardiac surgical procedure. Concomitantly, the most frequently encountered etiology and physiopathology of this entity have changed considerably. Indeed, 30 years ago, patients with AS were typically younger individuals with either rheumatic heart valve disease or congenitally bicuspid aortic valves. The reduction in aortic valve area (AVA) was usually fixed and due to a fusion of the valvular commissures, and the primary disease was deemed to be limited to the valve, without any particular involvement of the left ventricle, the ascending aorta, or the rest of the vascular tree. In contrast, AS is at present most frequently encountered i...

EAE/ASE Recommendations for the Use of Echocardiography in New Transcatheter Interventions for Valvular Heart Disease

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:39:34 +0100

The introduction of devices for transcatheter aortic valve implantation, mitral repair, and closure of prosthetic paravalvular leaks has led to a greatly expanded armamentarium of catheter-based approaches to patients with regurgitant as well as stenotic valvular disease. Echocardiography plays an essential role in identifying patients suitable for these interventions and in providing intra-procedural monitoring. Moreover, echocardiography is the primary modality for post-procedure follow-up. The echocardiographic assessment of patients undergoing trans-catheter interventions places demands on echocardiographers that differ from those of the routine evaluation of patients with native or prosthetic valvular disease. Consequently, the European Association of Echocardiography in partnership w...

Effect of Percutaneous Transvenous Mitral Commissurotomy on Left Atrial Appendage Function: An Immediate and 6-Month Follow-Up Transesophageal Doppler Study

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The present study shows contractile dysfunction of the LAA in patients with critical mitral stenosis, which significantly improved after PTMC, and a further improvement was observed at 6-month follow-up. Favorable 6-month improvements in LAA parameters suggest continuous structural remodeling of the LAA after PTMC, which is clinically attributed to the absence of thromboembolism. Although there was an improvement in LAA function, it was far below the normal range, suggesting a need for continuous long-term monitoring and management of thromboembolism in these patients. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Validation of Echocardiographic Left Atrial Parameters in Atrial Fibrillation Using the Index Beat of Preceding Cardiac Cycles of Equal Duration

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Use of the index beat to measure dynamic left atrial function in atrial fibrillation can easily be performed and is as accurate as and less time consuming than the onerous method of averaging of multiple cardiac cycles. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Non-Geometric Echocardiographic Indices of Ventricular Function in Patients with a Fontan Circulation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Among Fontan patients, the correlation between CMR-derived EF and nongeometric echocardiographic indices of ventricular function is not strong. Of the indices evaluated, however, mean dP/dtic appears to be the best. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

A Novel Bilayer Approach to Ventricular Septal Deformation Analysis by Speckle Tracking Imaging in Children with Right Ventricular Overload

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Deformation of both sides of the ventricular septum functionally differed. Bilayer analysis of the ventricular septum can help in the evaluation of right ventricular performance under volume and pressure overload. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Comprehensive Assessment of Changes in Left Atrial Volumes and Function after ST-Segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction: Role of Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Strain Imaging

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: LA remodeling occurred in 22% of patients after acute myocardial infarction. In patients without LA remodeling, no changes in LA function were observed, but in patients with LA remodeling, LA function deteriorated significantly. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Vena Contracta Width as a Predictor of Adverse Outcomes in Patients with Severe Isolated Tricuspid Regurgitation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In severe isolated TR, VCW is a powerful independent predictor of adverse outcomes. Adverse outcomes were considerable for VCW > 7 mm, which suggests that quantification of TR by Doppler echocardiography is crucial for estimating prognosis. TV surgery might be considered for patients with severe isolated TR with VCW > 7 mm. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Carl Friedrich Gauss and Pravin Shah—A Tribute to Excellence

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Carl Friedrich Gauss (1777–1853), now known as the Prince of Mathematics or the Greatest Mathematician Since Antiquity, was born to a poor family in the German duchy of Braunschweig-Wolfbuttel. His father was the custodian of a one-classroom school and was therefore permitted to allow little Carl, then 6 years old, to attend classes. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Comparative Accuracy of Two- and Three-Dimensional Transthoracic and Transesophageal Echocardiography in Identifying Mitral Valve Pathology in Patients Undergoing Mitral Valve Repair: Initial Observations

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: All modalities were equally reliable in identifying functional MR. Both 2D TEE and 3D TEE were comparable in diagnosing MR mechanism, while 3D TEE had the advantage of better localizing the disease. With current technology, 3D TTE was the least reliable in identifying valve pathology. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Pericardial Rather Than Epicardial Fat is a Cardiometabolic Risk Marker: An MRI vs Echo Study

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Increased cardiac fat in the pericardial area is strongly associated with features of the metabolic syndrome, whereas no correlation was found with EPI, indicating that in clinical practice, PERI is a better cardiometabolic risk marker than EPI. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Factors Determining Outcomes of Aortic Valve Surgery in Patients with Aortic Regurgitation Due to Behçet's Disease: Impact of Preoperative Echocardiographic Features

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This retrospective study confirms that initial echocardiographic features can provide useful prognostic information in patients with AR due to Behçet's disease. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Carotid Intima Media Thickness

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

The understanding that atherosclerosis is a sub-intimal process provided the opportunity to image the disease process. Pignoli et al utilized ultrasound and measured the intima-media complex of the carotid artery (given the technical limitation of measuring the sub-intima alone) as a surrogate for the sub-intimal atherosclerotic process. Ever since the idea that measurement of the intima-media complex or IMT can provide a window into the atherosclerosis burden came to the fore, several efforts have focused on evaluating the value of IMT in research and clinical practice. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Help Us Get More Sonographer Members!

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

A question I often hear, both in my lab and when I travel, is “How can I get more involved with ASE?” My first response is to ask if the person is a member. Often they tell me they are not. That is usually followed by a short conversation about the benefits of belonging to the ASE, after which I direct them to the Website. At some point I will write a column about how to become more involved with ASE, but since it begins with membership I would like to talk a little bit about that this month. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Continuing Education and Meeting Calendar

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

Support our Society: Support the Foundation!

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

Did you attend the gala in Montreal? No, not the Formula One Ball, which I hear was a real snooze. I’m talking about the 2nd Annual ASE Foundation Awards Gala at our Annual Scientific Sessions, where attendees learned many things, including the following: the ASE needs a budget for singing lessons, and I can’t dance. But we were really there to celebrate the lives and achievements of our awardees: Feigenbaum Lecturer, Judy Hung; Pediatric Founder’s Award, James Huhta; Meritorious Service Award to our dedicated attorney, Diane Millman; Sonographer Lifetime Achievement Award, David Adams; and the Popp Excellence in Teaching Award, Jonathan Lindner who then proceeded to run up the score by mentoring the winner of the young investigator competition, Scott Chadderdon, whose fascinating ba...

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Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

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Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

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Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:04 +0100

(Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Author’s Response

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:03 +0100

We thank Dyar et al for their comments and questions. We appreciate the opportunity to respond and to discuss the issues raised in more detail. The correct unit when indexing body surface area (BSA) is indeed m^2.76. The published units of m^2.6 was a typographical error that was unfortunately not recognized prior to final publication. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Author's Reply

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:48:03 +0100

We appreciate the interest of Dr. Silbiger and the opportunity to address his comments. It is well recognized that patients with impaired relaxation patterns can have increased left ventricular (LV) filling pressures. In fact, this is clearly stated in the guidelines at the conclusion of the second paragraph on page 128. Notwithstanding the above, we have several major concerns with Dr. Silbiger's emphasis on the report by Bogaty et al. and his thoughts about additional grades of diastolic dysfunction. First, in Bogaty et al., some of the examples indicate that an E/A ratio < 1 was due to shortened diastolic filling time and fusion of the mitral E and A velocities. In that regard, Appleton previously showed that if the velocity at the start of the A wave is >20 cm/sec, the E/A ratio is r...

Utility of Right Ventricular Free Wall Speckle-Tracking Strain for Evaluation of Right Ventricular Performance in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: RV-free has the potential to allow for noninvasive follow-up of patients with PH. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Echocardiographic Evaluation and Follow-Up of Cardiac and Aortic Indexes in Aviators Exposed to Acceleration Forces

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Exposure to acceleration forces has no significant impact on cardiac and aortic morphology. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Usefulness of Pre-Procedure Cavotricuspid Isthmus Imaging by Modified Transthoracic Echocardiography for Predicting Outcome of Isthmus-Dependent Atrial Flutter Ablation

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Preprocedural transthoracic echocardiography using a modified apical long-axis view is useful to characterize the morphology of the CTI and the ER. An extensive ER is a strong predictor for difficult ablation of CTI-dependent atrial flutter. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Prediction of Heart Failure and Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Outpatients with Coronary Artery Disease Using Mitral E/A Ratio in Conjunction with E-Wave Deceleration Time: The Heart and Soul Study

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In ambulatory patients with stable CAD, restrictive filling (E/A ratio ≥ 1.5) is a powerful predictor of HF. Among those with normal mitral E/A ratios (0.75–1.5), only DT/pE predicts HF, while neither DT nor DT/pE predicts other MACEs. This suggests that mitral E/A ratio has significant prognostic value in patients with CAD, and in those with normal mitral E/A ratios, the normalization of DT to pE augments its prognostic power. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Mean Strain Throughout the Heart Cycle by Longitudinal Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography Enables Early Prediction of Infarct Size

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Longitudinal global mean strain provides improved early prediction of infarct size in patients with AMI compared with longitudinal global strain and left ventricular ejection fraction. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Myocardial Strain Assessment in Cystic Fibrosis

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Using strain measurements, subclinical changes in left ventricular function were found in patients with cystic fibrosis. These parameters were correlated with the degree of pulmonary involvement severity. These findings have potentially significant clinical implications for the outcomes and follow-up of patients with cystic fibrosis, meriting further studies. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Role of Transesophageal Echocardiography Compared to Computed Tomography in Evaluation of Pulmonary Vein Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation (ROTEA Study)

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In the ROTEA study, TEE was feasible in assessing PVs before and after ablation, providing both anatomic and functional information that complemented CT. PV ostial dimensions after ablation can be monitored using either modality, although TEE underestimates PV dimensions, especially for the inferior veins. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Doppler Classification of Diastolic Dysfunction

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Transmitral pulsed-wave and mitral annular tissue Doppler are routinely used in clinical practice to assess left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. Using these Doppler modalities, three classic diastolic filling patterns are commonly described: abnormal relaxation (type 1), pseudonormal (type 2), and restrictive (type 3). However, in routine clinical practice, not all filling patterns fit neatly into this tripartite classification. A number of patients demonstrate a Doppler filling pattern, sometimes referred to as type 1B, characterized by a reduced mitral E/A ratio, prolongation of E-wave deceleration time, and an increased E/e′ ratio (). This constellation of Doppler findings is thought to be consistent with elevated left atrial pressure, delayed LV relaxation, and a negligible abno...

Tei Index in Fabry Disease

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In this cohort, the Tei index was of limited value to detect myocardial fibrosis and monitor enzyme replacement therapy. However, the progression of cardiomyopathy toward LV hypertrophy seems to be paralleled by global functional impairment, which can be assessed by the Tei index but not by ejection fraction. Thus, the Tei index seems to be a global parameter that can detect LV functional reduction in patients with Fabry disease. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

The Value of Three-Dimensional Echocardiography Derived Mitral Valve Parametric Maps and the Role of Experience in the Diagnosis of Pathology

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This is the first study to show that the interpretation of 3D parametric maps improves the accuracy of localization of MV pathology by novice readers. Therefore, parametric maps should be used routinely by less experienced readers during the assessment of degenerative MV disease. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

Carotid Artery Stiffness and Diastolic Function in Subjects without Known Cardiovascular Disease

Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In healthy subjects, changes in central carotid stiffness are in line with left ventricular diastolic function independently of age, sex, pulse pressure, and body mass index. (Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography)

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Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in Targeted Neonatal Echocardiography: Reply to Letter by Dr. Koestenberger and Dr. Ravekes

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Comprehensive Hemodynamic Assessment of 305 Normal CarboMedics Mitral Valve Prostheses Based on Early Postimplantation Echocardiographic Studies

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Guidelines for Performing Ultrasound Guided Vascular Cannulation: Recommendations of the American Society of Echocardiography and the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists

Limitations of Current Echocardiographic Nomograms for Left Ventricular, Valvular, and Arterial Dimensions in Children: A Critical Review

Automated Quantification of Mitral Inflow and Aortic Outflow Stroke Volumes by Three-Dimensional Real-Time Volume Color-Flow Doppler Transthoracic Echocardiography: Comparison with Pulsed-Wave Doppler and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Assessment of Transmitral Vortex Formation in Patients with Diastolic Dysfunction

Evaluation of Global Left Ventricular Systolic Function Using Three-Dimensional Echocardiography Speckle-Tracking Strain Parameters

Left Ventricular Outflow Tract: Intraoperative Measurement and Changes Caused by Mitral Valve Surgery

Mitral Regurgitation in Patients Referred for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Using the Edwards Sapien Prosthesis: Mechanisms and Early Postprocedural Changes

Reproducibility of Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Coronary and Microvascular Thrombolysis with Guided Diagnostic Ultrasound and Microbubbles in Acute ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

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Circumferential and Longitudinal Ventricular Strain in the Normal Human Fetus

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Epicardial Adipose Tissue Relating to Anthropometrics, Metabolic Derangements and Fatty Liver Disease Independently Contributes to Serum High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Beyond Body Fat Composition: A Study Validated with Computed Tomography

Effects of Mild Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation on Ventricular Remodeling and Its Contribution to Congestive Heart Failure

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Biventricular Performance in Patients with Marfan Syndrome without Significant Valvular Disease: Comparison to Normal Subjects and Longitudinal Follow-Up

Effects of Aortic Valve Replacement on Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony in Aortic Stenosis with Narrow QRS Complex

Value of Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography for Prediction of Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated by Primary Percutaneous Intervention

Apex to Base Left Ventricular Twist Mechanics Computed from High Frame Rate Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Echocardiography: A Comparison Study

Extensive or Restricted Ultrasound Protocols to Measure Carotid Intima-Media Thickness: Analysis of Completeness Rates and Impact on Observed Rates of Change Over Time

A Novel Echocardiographic Parameter for Predicting the Ischemic Etiology of Cardiomyopathy and Its Prognosis in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure