Real-time transmission of pediatric echocardiograms using a single ISDN line

We tested the adequacy of a videoconferencing system using a single integrated systems digital network (ISDN) line (128 kilobits per second) for the remote diagnosis of children with suspected congenital heart disease (CHD). Real-time echocardiogram interpretation was compared to subsequent videotape review in 401 studies with concordance in 383 (95.5%) studies. A new diagnosis of CHD was made in 98 studies. Immediate patient transfer was arranged based upon a real-time diagnosis in five studies. In 300 studies, a normal diagnosis obviated further evaluation. A single ISDN line is adequate for transmission of pediatric echocardiograms and it allows for remote management of patients with CHD.