Parasternal Long Axis View Echo, Probe Position, Pulmonary Hypertension (PH)

Content:

• What is Parasternal Long Axis View? 
• Parasternal Long Axis View Echo
• Parasternal Long Axis View Probe Position
• Parasternal Long Axis View Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) 

What is Parasternal Long Axis View? 

The Parasternal Long Axis view is a fundamental echocardiographic view that provides a comprehensive visualization of the heart's anatomy and function. It is obtained by placing the ultrasound probe along the left parasternal border and angling it to align with the long axis of the heart. This view allows for the simultaneous visualization of multiple cardiac structures, including the left ventricle, mitral valve, aortic valve, and ascending aorta.

Parasternal Long Axis View Echo

The Parasternal Long Axis View Echo plays a critical role in echocardiography by allowing visualization of the heart's long axis, focusing on key structures such as the left ventricle, left atrium, mitral valve, and aortic valve, among others. This imaging technique involves positioning the ultrasound probe adjacent to the sternum on the left side of the chest, typically at the second intercostal space. It yields important insights into cardiac anatomy, function, and blood flow patterns, which are invaluable for diagnosing and managing various cardiac conditions. By providing detailed information about cardiac structure and function, identifying abnormalities, and informing treatment decisions, the Parasternal Long Axis View Echo is indispensable in the care of patients with heart disease.

Parasternal Long Axis View Probe Position

To acquire the Parasternal Long Axis view, the ultrasound probe is positioned along the left parasternal border of the chest, typically in the third or fourth intercostal space. The probe is then angled to optimize visualization of the long axis of the heart, ensuring clear imaging of cardiac structures and their relationships.

Parasternal Long Axis View Pulmonary Hypertension (PH)

In the evaluation of pulmonary hypertension, the Parasternal Long Axis view provides valuable insights into cardiac structure and function, aiding in the diagnosis and management of this condition. Key findings observed in this view include:

Right Ventricular Enlargement: Pulmonary hypertension often leads to right ventricular hypertrophy and dilation, which can be visualized in the Parasternal Long Axis view as an enlarged RV chamber compared to the left ventricle.

Interventricular Septal Morphology: Pressure overload in PH may cause the interventricular septum to bow towards the left ventricle during systole, a phenomenon known as septal flattening or paradoxical septal motion. This abnormal septal morphology is readily apparent in the Parasternal Long Axis view and is indicative of elevated pulmonary pressures.

Tricuspid Regurgitation: Pulmonary hypertension commonly results in tricuspid valve regurgitation, which can be detected in the Parasternal Long Axis view as retrograde flow from the right ventricle into the right atrium during systole, providing additional evidence of PH.