Echocardiography in the Era of COVID-19: Lessons for the Future

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• COVID-19 is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes, affecting patients with and without pre-existing heart conditions.
• Echocardiography, a vital imaging tool, has been frontline in assessing cardiac health during the pandemic.
• Healthcare professionals performing echocardiography face increased risks of COVID-19 transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role and safety of echocardiography during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To highlight strategies for safe echocardiography practice in the context of infectious disease outbreaks.
• To discuss the implications of lessons learned for future pandemic preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific statements and guidelines on echocardiography during pandemics.
• Analysis of triaging approaches for imaging exam indications and procedures.
• Examination of focused protocols and exposure reduction techniques, including point-of-care ultrasound.

Main Results:

• Implementation of triaging strategies for imaging appropriateness and indications.
• Adoption of focused echocardiography protocols and enhanced safety procedures to minimize exposure.
• Recognition of point-of-care ultrasound as a valuable tool in pandemic settings.

Conclusions:

• Echocardiography remains a critical diagnostic modality for cardiovascular assessment during pandemics.
• Adapting clinical questions, employing focused protocols, and embracing novel procedures ensure safe and effective echocardiography.
• Lessons learned from COVID-19 are essential for maintaining echocardiography services during future health crises.