Right Ventricular Inflow Tract (RVIT) View (Left Parasternal Window)

This chapter deals with the Right Atrium, Right Ventricle, Tricuspid Valve and the Inflow into the Right Atrium via the Coronary Sinus and Vena Cava. It is important because it deals with the venous return from the Systemic Circulation, and also with the outflow to the Lungs and Pulmonary Circulation. It is closely linked with Respiration both in the inflow as well as outflow. Moreover, because it receives blood from the Inferior Vena Cava and Superior Vena Cava, any alteration in pressure or volume in the Right Atrium or Right Ventricle is conducted backwards into the Venae Cavae, because they don’t have valves. Hemodynamic changes in the Right Atrium and Right Ventricle are seen in this view. Pathology involving the Tricuspid Valve, including Tricuspid Regurgitation either due to pathology in the Inter Atrial Septum, Cor Pulmonale or pathology involving the Left side of the Heart like Mitral Stenosis can be studied in this view. Pathology specific to Tricuspid Valve like Ebstein’s Anomaly, Carcinoid Syndrome are well seen in this view. Schematic diagrams showing the walls of the Right Ventricle and Right Ventricular Inflow Tract view aid in the understanding of this view. Step by step coverage of how to obtain the image, structures seen and not seen in this view, a list of pathological conditions that can be identified in this view, the emergency conditions that need prompt attention, 2D and Doppler images that help in the diagnostic process are highlighted in this view. RVIT view should form a part of the Echocardiogram protocol, especially if a Right Sided pathology or involvement is suspected.