3D Echocardiography in Critical Care

Abstract

Three-dimensional echocardiography became commercially available around 15 years ago, but still made little inroads into critical care daily practice. It allows unprecedented level of imaging and quantification of cardiac structures and function. It is available for transthoracic and transoesophageal applications. There is a steep learning curve required to master the technique. Recent advances in ultrasound technology, computer animation and developments in artificial intelligence brought along simplification in applications, great improvements in bedside applicability and allowed rapid haemodynamic assessment in critical care environment. This chapter is aimed at practicing clinicians with advanced echocardiography skills who wish to expand their skills and to incorporate 3D echocardiography in their daily research and practice. The highly illustrated content will help to understand essential technological principles, equipment, new artifacts, limitations, current and future indications relevant to the intensive care practice and will provide the reader with multiple clinical examples encompassing most areas of applicable critical care. It addresses the use of both: 3D TTE and 3D TOE in ICU.

Evolution has ensured that our brains just aren’t equipped to visualize 11 dimensions directly. However, from a purely mathematical point of view it’s just as easy to think in 11 dimensions, as it is to think in three or four.

Stephen Hawking