Examination
Echocardiography is a diagnostic imaging technique by which ultrasound is used to display anatomic and physiologic characteristics of the cardiovascular system. Echocardiography consists of several different imaging modalities that require appropriate settings. In this chapter the most important system settings are discussed in the context of the basic physics of ultrasound image formation. Setting-up the echo machine to optimize patient examination is discussed in detail. All controls are covered. Continuous-wave, pulsed-wave, and colour flow Doppler are explained, as well as more advanced techniques including myocardial velocity imaging and speckle tracking and 3D imaging. Understanding these basic principles will allow optimizing image quality for each individual patient.