Heartfelt Highlights: February JASE

The February JASE issue is now online and features a review “State-of-the-Art in Echocardiographic Strain Imaging of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy” Regarding this paper, author Thomas Meredith, BMed, MD, MClinTRes, remarked, “Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) remains a challenging diagnostic entity. Conventional 2D echocardiography lacks the sensitivity of CMR in identifying imaging features of this disease at an early or pre-clinical stage and is therefore becoming less relied upon as a definitive diagnostic modality for this condition. In light of emerging research, echocardiographic strain imaging could hold important diagnostic potential by improving sensitivity of current diagnostic frameworks. Evidence supports the superior sensitivity of strain imaging, compared with conventional 2D echo chamber quantification, in detecting subclinical biventricular dysfunction, which is now appreciated to occur commonly in this condition. We are excited to share this review, synthesizing the most significant recent developments in echocardiographic strain imaging over the past five years, with a focus on its application to right and left ventricular assessment, differentiation of athletic remodeling, prognostication, and its comparative utility with CMR.”

Aligned with the review article, the focus of the issue is atrial strain, which is the subject of three original investigations and one brief research communication. Other topics include assessment of tricuspid regurgitation severity, estimation of right atrial pressure, and therapeutic ultrasound. Additionally, a special communication explores the performance of early fetal echocardiography that features an expert statement from the Fetal Heart Society.

In this month’s President’s Message, ASE President David Wiener, MD, FASE, and Allyson B. Boyle, MHA, ACS, RDCS, FASE explore how ASE supports and elevates sonographers in the field through building and fostering confidence, providing leadership development, expanding career options, and addressing the issues that matter.

Please see the February ASE Education Calendar for a listing of educational opportunities far and wide.