IM+CC US Curriculum

Week 3 – Introduction to Aortic and Pulmonary Artery Velocity Time Integrals

This week we target RV and LV stroke volume, cardiac output and correlating with states of shock. ASE guidelines and reading materials support these objectives. Video resources are also provided.

Terren Trott
1–2 minutes

Goals of Week 3:

  • Obtain RV inflow and outflow views
  • Obtain Apical Five Chamber
  • Understand the correlation between pulmonary artery and aortic velocity time integrals (VTi) and the RV and LV stroke volume.
  • Trace a VTi and measure peak velocity
  • Calculate stroke volume and cardiac output from both RV and LV VTi.
  • Calculate cardiac output in a high output state

ASE Guideline Readings:

Guidelines for Performing a Comprehensive Transthoracic Echocardiographic Exam

IV. Two Dimensional Imaging Protocol

PLAX view

Right ventricular outflow tract view

Apical view

Apical Five-chamber view

V. Two Dimensional Measurements

PLAX view

Proximal RVOT

Distal RVOT

PSAX

RVOT

VII. Color Doppler Imaging

RVOT, PV and PA

RV inflow and tricuspid valve

AV

VIII. Spectral Doppler Imaging

RVOT and PA

LVOT and AV

Reading Checklist:

Echocardiography in the intensive care unit: beyond eyeballing. A plea for the broader use of the aortic velocity-time integral measurement
Rationale for using the velocity-time integral and the minute distance for assessing the stroke volume and cardiac output in point-of-care settings
Role of the LVOT in Sepsis and Septic Shock
Cardiac output measurements via echocardiography versus thermodilution: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Shape of the RVOT and Severity of Pulmonary Hypertension

Video Review Checklist:

Hands-on Checklist:

Week 3 Hands on Checklist

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