Normal Cardiac Anatomy and Common Views

There is no universally accepted imaging protocol for point-of-care cardiac ultrasound. Image acquisition and interpretation skills of the examiner are crucial in order to diagnose common conditions and comprehend the limitations of the approach [1]. Certain imaging views are easier to obtain (such as parasternal and subcostal views), others need more expertise (such as apical views), and certain techniques require comprehensive training (such as color and spectral Doppler) [2]. The following abnormalities can be accurately detected using point of care cardiac ultrasound: left ventricular enlargement, hypertrophy, and systolic dysfunction; right ventricular enlargement and dysfunction; pericardial effusion; and elevated central venous pressure [3]. Correct quantification of the detected abnormalities requires comprehensive echocardiography. The current chapter (Figs. 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.4, 16.5, 16.6, 16.7, 16.8, 16.9, 16.10, 16.11, 16.12, 16.13, and 16.14; Videos 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.4, 16.5, 16.6, 16.7, and 16.8; and Table 16.1) reviews some common views that can be obtained and interpreted during point of care ultrasound examination.