Left Parasternal View.
Long axis

The Left Parasternal View, long axis of the heart, is mainly used to study the left parts of the heart. It is also used to direct the ultrasound beam for one-dimensional echocardiography (M-mode).

Click image to enlarge

PRACTICE IN THE SIMULATOR

How to obtain this view

1. Switch Echocardiography Simulator to B-Mode. Initially Simulator is set to B-Mode.
2. Using Slider and Buttons <<Skeleton>> choose the appropriate transparency level.
3. Choose position “Parasternal Long” from the list <<Positions>>, or find the view with the 3D transducer.

Find Left Parasternal View, long axis with 3D Transducer

To obtain this position, transducer is placed (See Operations On Transducer) in the III-IV or V intercostal space (in our case in the IV intercostal space), at the left border of the chest bone, perpendicular to the chest surface. In obese patients, it is better to conduct the study from the III intercostal space; in asthenic patients it is better from the VI intercostal space. Transducer marker is pointing up. The heart scan is performed parallel to an imaginary line that connects the right shoulder to the left iliac region — Transducer Marker points toward the right shoulder.

VIDEO TUTORIAL

See the probe position in action

ANATOMY

Structures visualized in this view

• RV — Right ventricle (Anterior wall and part of the outflow tract of the right ventricle)
• IVS — Upper and middle part of the interventricular septum
• AO — Aorta
• LA — Left Atrium
• LV — Left Ventricle
• AL — Anterior Leaflet of the Mitral Valve
• PL — Posterior Leaflet of the Mitral Valve
• R — Right Coronary Leaflet of the Aortic Valve
• N — Non Coronary Leaflet of the Aortic Valve
• PW — Posterior Wall of the Left Ventricle
• DAo — Descending Aorta

Note: It is not possible to visualize apex of the heart from this position because it is located slightly lower.