Echocardiography

Cardiac ultrasound uses reflected sound waves (echos) to create images of anatomy inside the body. Echocardiograms are the primary cardiac imaging modality used to assess the heart and diagnose or track cardiac issues. Echo is the gold standard imaging modality to assess the heart, particularly with calculating left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), which is a measure of cardiac output. In addition to noninvasive standard transthoracic echo (TTE), invasive transesophgeal echo (TEE) is also used when clearer, more detailed imaging of the heart is needed. Both 3D and 4D echo echo systems are rapidly gaining wider adoption and enable new types of assessments, especially in the structural heart space and in transcatheter procedural guidance. Find news on general ultrasound imaging.

FDA clears catheter-based 4D visualization platform for complex heart procedures
The new technology from LUMA Vision allows operators to deliver 2D and 4D ultrasound images in real time. The advanced catheter was built with maneuverability and increased visibility in mind.
FDA clears AI-powered echocardiography software
HeartFocus guides users through the entire process, making it so that even novices can deliver high-quality echocardiograms every time.
Right heart cardiac ultrasound contrast agent for shunts enters U.S. trial
Currently there are no FDA cleared echocardiography contrast agents commercially available for use on the right side of the heart to detect shunts, but a new agent that promises to improve workflow and imaging is about to enter a U.S. trial.
A simple way to ensure more heart patients with severe AS receive the care they need
Sending helpful alerts through email and the electronic health record can make a significant impact on patient care, according to new data presented at ACC.25 and published in Circulation.
Key trends in diagnostic heart testing: CT on the rise as some traditional techniques fall out of favor
The cardiac technologies clinicians use for CVD evaluations have changed significantly in recent years, according to a new analysis of CMS data. While some modalities are on the rise, others are being utilized much less than ever before.

LUMA Vision Verafeye Visualization Platform

FDA clears catheter-based 4D visualization platform for complex heart procedures

The new technology from LUMA Vision allows operators to deliver 2D and 4D ultrasound images in real time. The advanced catheter was built with maneuverability and increased visibility in mind.

FDA clears AI-powered echocardiography software

HeartFocus guides users through the entire process, making it so that even novices can deliver high-quality echocardiograms every time.

The Agitation Solutions Orbis Microbubble Generator simplifies and streamlines the process of saline agitation and delivery for cardiac bubble studies using a single use syringe. It is was cleared for use in Canada in 2024.

Right heart cardiac ultrasound contrast agent for shunts enters U.S. trial

Currently there are no FDA cleared echocardiography contrast agents commercially available for use on the right side of the heart to detect shunts, but a new agent that promises to improve workflow and imaging is about to enter a U.S. trial.

A simple way to ensure more heart patients with severe AS receive the care they need

Sending helpful alerts through email and the electronic health record can make a significant impact on patient care, according to new data presented at ACC.25 and published in Circulation.

Key trends in diagnostic heart testing: CT on the rise as some traditional techniques fall out of favor

The cardiac technologies clinicians use for CVD evaluations have changed significantly in recent years, according to a new analysis of CMS data. While some modalities are on the rise, others are being utilized much less than ever before.

Standard transthoracic imaging planes for comprehensive right heart assessment. Several key views should be included in the standard echocardiographic assessment of the right heart. Image and caption courtesy of the American Society of Echocardiography.

ASE updates recommendations for assessing right heart function in patients with pulmonary hypertension

The new guidelines were designed to ensure sonographers and other members of the heart team have the information they need to screen patients when appropriate and identify early warnings signs of PH.

The Medtronic CoreValve Evolut and the Edwards Lifesciences Sapien 3 TAVR valves.

Second-generation TAVR valves from Medtronic, Edwards Lifesciences and Boston Scientific are all associated with similar seven-year outcomes, according to a new retrospective study out of Italy.

Figure from the new ASE guideline for ultrasound guided vascular access, showing vessel and probe orientation on the transverse plane short axis (SAX) view perpendicular to the vessels, or in longitudinal long axis plane (LAX) coaxial to the vessels. Image courtesy of ASE

ASE shares new guidelines for ultrasound-guided vascular access

The American Society of Echocardiography included descriptions, diagrams and ultrasound images in the new document to make it as helpful as possible.