Our patient's laboratory evaluation is normal, including his blood chemistries, electrocardiogram, and chest X rays. No further evaluation is indicated in this patient.
Not indicated in our patient
While not indicated in this patient, echocardiography is a very useful and safe non-invasive diagnostic technique. It utilizes ultrasound, or high-frequency sound waves, to define cardiac anatomy and assess cardiac function.
2-D Echo
The two-dimensional, or 2-D system, is the most commonly used method of echocardiographic assessment. It provides an anatomically and spatially correct presentation of cardiac structure. It also provides an assessment of cardiac function, including the analysis of focal wall motion and the estimation of global ejection fraction.
PLAX-pathology correlation
Multiple views are used in two-dimensional echocardiographic interpretation.
This pathologic specimen is cut to correlate with the parasternal long axis view (PLAX).
The left atrium, left ventricle and aorta are labeled, as are the posterior wall, posteromedial papillary muscle, ventricular septum and right ventricle.
The anterior and posterior mitral valve leaflets and two of the three cusps of the aortic valve are well visualized, as is the coronary sinus.