Q. What is Subxiphoid Short Axis Sweep?

To obtain the subxiphoid short axis view transducer should be rotated by 90 degree clockwise, fi-om the previous position so that pointer points inferiorly. Sweep should start from right to left gradually until apex of heart is seen. Atria including its venou$ connections and interatrial septum are visualized in right sided cuts. All type of atrial septa1 defects, right upper and right lower pulmonary veins cauld be seen in this view. Atrial morphology can be decided in this view.

When transducer is rotated further towards left, aortic valve along with proximal ascending aorta, mitral and tricuspid valves are seen. Further rotation of transducer provide view of pulmonary valve and main pulmonary artery. One may decide the location of VSD in this view, sub infundibular muscle bundle and mal-alignment of outlet septum, relationship between semilunar valves and AV valves can be seen in this view by slight rotation of the transducer. Hence these view are important while making the more complex diagnosis. Ventricles can be seen in short axis view (circular LV and crescent shape RV). Muscular VSDs at various plane can be located by this sweep.