M-mode, or the motion mode is used to image moving structures and measure their degree of motion over time. While we use it as an adjunct to 2-dimensional echocardiography (= regular greyscale ultrasound), M-mode has actually been used…
Subxiphoid, also known as the subcostal view is the easiest cardiac view to obtain in most patients. It is particularly useful in mechanically ventilated patients, as it can be obtained reliably when no other sonographic windows are found…
Previously, we discussed the sonographic anatomy and principles of image acquisition of the apical view. Now let us talk briefly about some of the important abnormalities that can be seen on this view. Pericardial effusion This is a…
Kidney cysts are commonly encountered in clinical practice- overall prevalence has been estimated to be 10.7%. Here are some common sonographic scenarios: Abhilash Koratala, MD
Apical window is a component of the standard FoCUS examination and is mainly used for the assessment of right ventricular systolic function, and its size relative to the left ventricle. It is also best for the Doppler interrogation…
Last month we focused on introducing the Parasternal Short Axis View (PSAX). Now we turn our attention to some of the must-know abnormalities for the nephrologist in this view. Left ventricular function As mentioned in the previous post,…
Parasternal short axis (PSAX) view is the cross-sectional view of the heart. The image acquisition, sonographic anatomy and the key pathologies seen in this view are discussed below. How is the exam performed? The transducer selection and the…
Why should nephrologists perform cardiac ultrasonography? Cardiac POCUS, also known as focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) is a valuable adjunct to physical examination in various clinical settings. Being able to evaluate cardiac pump function, chamber size, wall thickness, presence…
As a general rule, in any patient presenting with acute kidney injury without an obvious cause, obstructive nephropathy must be excluded because prompt intervention can lead to improvement or complete recovery of renal function. Therefore, the detection of…
Why should nephrologists perform lung ultrasonography? Determination of volume status is a frequent challenge faced by nephrologists in routine clinical practice and errors in this assessment may result in inappropriate therapy and potentially adverse patient outcomes. Lung ultrasound…
