Normal cardiac function

Parasternal long-axis view

Remember “DEFG”

Dimensions: 3-4-5-6 (max size in cm of RVOT, aortic root, LA and LV in PLAX)

Effort: LV function (walls should contract by 1/3, E-point septal separation <7mm), RV function (in 4-chamber view).

Fluid: pericardial effusion and tamponade, IVC assessment.

Gradients: gross assessment of valves, Colour flow for regurgitation.


LV systolic dysfunction

PLAX - cardiomyopathy with LV systolic impairment

PLAX - cardiomyopathy with LV systolic impairment


Pericardial effusion


Cardiac Arrest

RV dilatation/dysfunction

Apical view - RV dilatation with impaired systolic function

Apical view - RV dilatation with impaired systolic function


Inferior vena cava (IVC)