Imaging in Mechanical Circulatory Support: Echocardiography

Echocardiography is an essential tool in the evaluation of patients with LVAD. Echocardiography plays a major role in identifying appropriate patients for LVAD. Perioperative management of LVAD heavily relies on transthoracic and transesophageal (TEE) echocardiography. For ongoing care of the patients with LVAD, echocardiography is vital. It is also a first-choice imaging modality in troubleshooting the complications. Systematic approach to echocardiographic assessment of the cardiac anatomy and physiology is an integral part of the LVAD care. Echocardiographic assessment provides a wealth of information at all stages of LVAD candidate selection, implantation, and management.