Introduction to Adult Echocardiography

Our Introduction to Adult Echocardiography course is designed to provide a strong foundation to perform and/or interpret adult cardiac ultrasound examinations. The program is taught by leading echocardiography experts, and includes comprehensive lectures, interactive case studies using an audience response system, and extensive hands on scanning featuring a 3:1 hands-on ratio using live models for the most hands on scan time.

Objectives

1. Increase the participant’s knowledge to better perform and/or interpret Echocardiography examinations
2. Demonstrate proper transducer manipulation and system optimization to produce diagnostic images (sonographer) and recognize potential imaging errors (Physician)
3. Demonstrate routine scan protocols to evaluate an adult patient using 2D/M-Mode/Color Flow & Doppler echocardiographic techniques and demonstrate appropriate measurements
4. Identify normal/abnormal characteristics of 2D cardiac anatomy and state the role of cardiac Doppler and list the necessary qualitative/quantitative measurements
5. Identify the ultrasound findings associated with valvular heart disease, cardiomyopathies, ischemic heart disease, pericardial disease and cardiac masses
6. List the latest imaging techniques in quantification of right and left ventricle wall motion
7. Document findings and apply standardized guidelines during compilation of an Echocardiography worksheet (sonographer) and dictated report (Physician)
8. List the steps necessary for system optimization during contrast echo imaging
9. Increase confidence to incorporate protocols, techniques & interpretation criteria to improve diagnostic/treatment accuracy

Topics

• Imaging Fundamentals
• Anatomy of the Heart and EKG
• 2D Evaluation of Cardiac Anatomy, Measurements, and Normal Values
• Parasternal and Suprasternal Windows
• Apical and Subcostal Windows
• Doppler Fundamentals & Color Doppler
• Pulsed & Continuous Wave Doppler
• Mitral & Aortic Valves (Evaluation & Disease)
• Cardiomyopathies
• Gross Anatomy Workshop
• Right Heart Disease
• Coronary Heart Diseases
• Diastolic Function/Contrast Echocardiography
• Pericardial Disease & Cardiac Masses