Resources
Core Elements Required in Every TTE Summary Statement
LV size
LV systolic function
RV size
RV systolic function
Statement about valvular function (if normal, "no significant valvular abnormalities" is sufficient)
"Normal echocardiogram" is not a sufficient interpretation to fulfill competency.
General Reporting Style Elements
Statement about image quality if it interferes with interpretation of key components related to the indication
Technical issues that limit interpretation
Points should be deducted if incorrect pathology is included
Presence of artifacts that interfere with key components related to the indication
Provide a unifying diagnosis if present (e.g. amyloidosis, HCM)
Common abbreviations can be used (e.g. LVEF, RVSP, ASD, VSD)
Complementary testing should be included when appropriate
Indication-Specific Elements
Include if related to the specific indication:
Diastolic function (e.g. dyspnea, amyloid)
Wall motion abnormalities, if related to acute coronary syndrome/CAD
Wall motion abnormalities, specify location (e.g. anterior wall) and relation to indication
Pulmonary pressures (e.g. pulmonary hypertension, diastolic dysfunction, shunts)
Atrial sizes if relevant (e.g. atrial fibrillation, amyloid)
Cardiac mass, if present
Transvenous leads, if there's a lead issue
Patent foramen ovale, if related to indication (e.g. cardiac source of embolism)
ASD, if present
VSD, if present
PFO/ASD occluders, if present
In aortic dilation, note aortic valve morphology if bicuspid
Include if abnormal:
Valve stenosis, if moderate or severe
Valve regurgitation, if moderate or severe
Aortic dimensions
Pericardial effusion (small, moderate, or large)
Image quality, if abnormal
Abbreviations: ASD: atrial septal defect, HCM: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, LV: left ventricle, PFO: patent foramen ovale, RV: right ventricle, VSD: ventricular septal defect
Full National Consensus Criteria
The complete National Consensus Criteria, organized by cardiac structure, is available as a downloadable reference document.