Cross-Sectional Analysis of Echocardiography Reports in Light of Guideline Recommendations

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify discrepancies in pediatric echocardiography reports across centers and emphasize the significance of establishing a standardized reporting approach. Materials and Methods: In this study, pediatric echocardiography reports from various institutions (university hospitals [UHs], training and research hospitals [TRHs], and private healthcare facilities) (33 reports from 29 centers) were evaluated for adherence to key criteria outlined in consensus guidelines by the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging of the European Society of Cardiology and the Association for European Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology. Each echocardiography report was systematically categorized into distinct sections, including patient information, medical records, echocardiographic findings, and conclusions. Results: Systemic and pulmonary venous return was reported in 58.3% of cases from UHs, 77.7% from TRHs, and 66.7% from private healthcare institutions (PHIs). Pulmonary artery and aortic arch were documented in 83.3% of reports from PHIs, 88.8% from TRHs, and 25% from UHs. Coronary artery dimensions and course were reported in 58.3% of reports from UHs, 77.7% from TRHs, and 16.7% from PHIs. Physician interpretations and diagnoses were present in all reports. However, information regarding environmental factors, such as whether the patient was awake or agitated during the examination, was reported in 66.6% of cases from TRHs but was entirely absent in reports from other institutions. Conclusion: This study demonstrates important variability in pediatric echocardiography reports. Adopting international guidelines may facilitate standardized reporting, ensure consideration of underassessed parameters, and promote a unified terminology across institutions.