Do You Need an Urgent Follow-Up After Your Heart Ultrasound?

Is an immediate follow-up appointment necessary?

Hello Doctor, I previously underwent a cardiac ultrasound examination and was supposed to return for a follow-up to review the report.
However, due to the pandemic, I canceled the appointment.
I would like to ask if there are any abnormalities in the ultrasound report and whether I need to schedule an immediate follow-up.
Thank you.
Report:
UCG No.: LA 110
IVS: 8 mm; LVEDD: 43 mm; LVESD: 28 mm; PW: 5 mm; LV mass (gm) = 78
EF by M-mode: 64%; Ao: 28 mm; LA: 32 mm;
1.
Heart size:
- Dilatation: nil
- Thickening: nil
- Cardiomyopathy: nil
2.
Pericardial effusion: nil
- Tamponade: nil
3.
LV systolic function: adequate
4.
Valvular lesions:
- MVP: nil
- MS: nil
- MR: mild to moderate, eccentric jet by color flow mapping
- AS: nil, max aortic velocity: 1.2 m/s
- AR: nil
- TS: nil
- TR: mild, Vmax: 2.3 m/s; max gradient: 21 mmHg
- PS: nil
- PR: mild
5.
Mitral E/A = 0.85/0.61 m/s (E/A ratio = 1.4); Dec Time = 148 ms; septal E/E’’ = 8.4, lateral E/E’’ = 5.5
6.
Asynergy: no regional wall motion abnormality at resting state
7.
Common congenital lesions: nil
8.
Others: TAPSE = 19 mm, IVC diameter 11 mm without inspiratory collapse > 50%
Conclusion:
- Adequate LV and RV systolic function
- Mild to moderate mitral regurgitation, eccentric jet, P3 coaptation abnormality
- Mild tricuspid and pulmonary regurgitation

sherry, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/19

Dr. Cai Guiqin reply Cardiology

It is advisable for you to discuss the above situation further with your attending physician.
Thank you, and wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2021/03/19

More Info

Based on the echocardiogram report you've provided, it appears that there are some notable findings that warrant further discussion regarding follow-up care. The report indicates that you have mild to moderate mitral regurgitation (MR), mild tricuspid regurgitation (TR), and mild pulmonary regurgitation (PR). Additionally, your left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) systolic functions are described as adequate, which is a positive aspect of your cardiac health.

Understanding Your Echocardiogram Findings
1. Mitral Regurgitation: This condition occurs when the mitral valve does not close tightly, allowing blood to flow backward into the left atrium when the left ventricle contracts. The report indicates that the MR is mild to moderate with an eccentric jet, which means that the regurgitant flow is not uniform and may be directed towards a specific area of the atrium. While mild MR can often be managed with regular monitoring, moderate MR may require more attention, especially if symptoms develop or if there are signs of heart enlargement or decreased function over time.

2. Tricuspid and Pulmonary Regurgitation: Similar to MR, TR and PR indicate that the respective valves are not closing properly. Mild TR and PR are often considered less concerning, especially if there are no symptoms or significant changes in heart function.

3. Systolic Function: The report states that both LV and RV systolic functions are adequate, with an ejection fraction (EF) of 64%. This is within the normal range, indicating that your heart is pumping effectively.
4. No Regional Wall Motion Abnormalities: This is a positive finding, suggesting that there are no areas of the heart muscle that are not contracting properly, which can be a sign of ischemia or previous heart damage.

Recommendations for Follow-Up
Given the findings of mild to moderate MR and the presence of mild TR and PR, it is advisable to have a follow-up appointment with a cardiologist. While your current symptoms may not be severe, the presence of these regurgitations can lead to complications over time, such as heart enlargement or heart failure, especially if they progress. Regular follow-up can help monitor these conditions and determine if any interventions are necessary.

1. Regular Monitoring: It is essential to have periodic echocardiograms to monitor the progression of the regurgitation and assess any changes in heart size or function.
2. Symptom Awareness: Be vigilant about any new symptoms such as increased shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling in the legs, which could indicate worsening heart function.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, managing blood pressure, and controlling blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.

4. Medication Management: If you are on medications for hypertension or other cardiovascular issues, ensure that you are adhering to your prescribed regimen and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, while your echocardiogram report shows some mild to moderate issues that require attention, your overall heart function appears to be adequate at this time. It is recommended that you schedule a follow-up appointment with a cardiologist to discuss your results in detail and establish a monitoring plan. This proactive approach will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed early, maintaining your heart health effectively.

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