Maksim Subotnikov

N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Russia

Title: Contemporary Echocardiographic Assessment Of Pericardial Effusion And Cardiac Tamponade

Biography

Maksim Subotnikov is a Cardiologist and Echocardiographer in the Department of Functional Diagnostics at the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology in Moscow, Russian Federation. His expertise lies in cardiovascular diagnostics, with a focus on echocardiography in oncology patients. He is dedicated to advancing cardiac imaging techniques to improve patient care and clinical outcomes.

Abstract

Objectives: The primary objective of this work is to review the literature on assessing pericardial effusion using echocardiography, with a focus on demonstrating key echocardiographic findings critical for diagnosing pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade.

Scope: We aim to present a comprehensive overview of the echocardiographic techniques used to assess pericardial effusion. This includes various imaging modalities such as 2D mode, M-mode, Doppler, and the evaluation of specific echocardiographic features associated with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. 

Methods: We conducted a literature review to analyze current echocardiographic techniques. In addition, we used our cardiac cine loops to illustrate pericardial effusion through various echocardiographic methods. These include 2D echocardiography, M-mode echocardiography, doppler imaging, chamber collapse assessment, diastolic ventricular size variations with the respiratory cycle, paradoxical motion of the interventricular septum, collapse of the inferior vena cava, respiratory flow variations through the valves, blood flow in the hepatic and pulmonary veins. 

Results: The key echocardiographic features demonstrated in this work are critical for the accurate assessment of patients with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade.

Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of utilizing various echocardiographic techniques to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely management of pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. Understanding the distinct features, such as chamber collapse and respiratory flow variations, is essential for providing the best clinical care for affected patients.