Hemodynamics

Echocardiography has evolved into a hemodynamic monitoring device; therefore, it is now an essential skill for anyone taking care of critically ill. Important hemodynamic parameters such as cardiac output and cardiac chamber pressure that once required invasive procedures can be acquired non-invasively using echocardiography. The objective of this Hemodynamics chapter is to integrate complex physiology including but not limited to Heart-Lung interactions, circulatory shock, and evaluation of the hypoxic patient in the ICU. The questions are aimed to be approached through a multi-organ perspective. We aim to highlight specific Echocardiographic methods to assess patient hemodynamics along with the relevant limitations. We hope that this chapter leads to a better understanding of Critical Care Echocardiography.