Did you know that we post CardioServ trivia regularly on Instagram and Facebook? Don’t miss out! It’s a fun way to test your echo knowledge! Whether through posts or videos there is always something new to learn. We have several trivia categories. What category would you like us to add?

In last week’s blog, we reviewed the correct way to measure the vena contracta width (VCW) This week we will review how MR mechanisms (primary v. secondary MR) affect the accuracy of MR vena contracta.

Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava (PLSVC) creates a connection from the SVC to the coronary sinus. It is something we do not routinely see on echo but is always a great catch when we do see it! This week we will review the subclavian anatomy and blood flow of a PLSVC.

When you think of CardioServ, the first thing that often comes to mind is our blogs! We strive to inspire excellence in imaging, and a big part of that is through education. What you may not realize is that for the past 13 years, we have been helping clients across the nation earn the recognition of echo accreditation, vascular and nuclear cardiology. This week we will share the surprising truth about echo accreditation that we discovered along the way.

A Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) It is a slit-like defect resulting from an incomplete fusion of the foramen ovale within the atrial septum. 20-25% of the population have a PFO and echocardiography is often used to diagnosis it. This week we will review the 4 things needed to rule out a PFO during an echo bubble- study.

It is estimated that over 4 million people in the United States have significant mitral regurgitation. Untreated severe mitral regurgitation decreases life quality and has a high mortality rate.  With the advancement of technology, including the MitraClip, more procedures and treatment options are available.