Apical 4 Chamber View Patient and Transducer Information

   

Apical 4 Chamber View Patient and Transducer Information

Patient Position:

  • Left Lateral Decubitus (LLD) (preferred)

Transducer Position:

  • Slide the transducer one or two rib spaces laterally
  • Place the transducer at area of Point of Maximal Impulse (PMI)
  • Orientation marker towards patient’s left side (arrow)

 

  • The apical 4 chamber view is also best appreciated with the patient in the LLD position and is obtained with the transducer orientation marker aiming towards the exam table/mattress.
  • It is sometimes helpful to palpate the PMI and to use that spot to place the transducer at the start of the exam.
  • Angulate the transducer towards the apex of the heart or anterior.
  • This is the best view to visualize the heart in its entirety and will give you the most accurate information on the overall global function of the heart and the ability to evaluate and compare the ventricular and atrial sizes.
  • Also note that that many physicians use this position to perform paracardialsentisis.