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Title: E-point septal separation (EPSS)

Category: Cardiology

Keywords: E-point septal separation (EPSS), left ventricular function, bedside emergency ultrasound (PubMed Search)

Posted: 10/28/2012 by Semhar Tewelde, MD

EPSS is an accurate and rapid bedside estimation of left ventricular function

First an image of heart should be obtained in the parasternal long-axis view

The ultrasound cursor should be placed through the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve

Subsequently, M-mode is applied and the distance between the anterior leaflet and the interventricular septum is measured during early diastole

A measurement of 7mm or greater indicates poor EF (see attachment below)

 

 

 

 

 

References

Secko MA, Lazar JM, Salcicciolo LA, Stone MB. Can junior emergency medicine physicians use E-point septal separation to accurately estimate left ventricular function in acutely dyspneic patients. Acad Emerg Med. 2011;18:1223-6 

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