Course comments

Approved comments for this course, newest at the top. Student posts appear after professor or Super Admin approval.

• Student9 Oct 2026, 13:04

  Good afternoon, Professor and my fellow students, although were now graduates. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to our Professor and the entire team for the training we have had. Although the training period was short, we have gained valuable knowledge that will help us throughout our careers and in our daily work. I wish all those who are travelling a safe journey, and those who are staying, a peaceful and safe time. May the God of Heaven bless you all. Thank you very much.

• Student8 Oct 2026, 11:26

  Hello Prof. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the Basic Echocardiography training. Your ability to break down complex cardiac imaging made the material so much easier to grasp. I really appreciate the three weeks of hands-on practice (the real scanning); under your guidance, my confidence level has completely changed. Thank you for investing your time and knowledge into our professional development.

• Student8 Oct 2026, 04:50

  Good morning Professor. In my progress of learning , I learnt about the methods for assessment of Global LV Systolic function and I acquired a lot of things especially the impact on medical decision making including recommendation of heart surgery. Also I understand about how the LV function can be assessed and the methods used. Thank you Professor for the lectures.

• Student7 Oct 2026, 04:20

  Dear Professor I would like to sincerely thank you for guiding us throughout this echocardiography training journey. It has been a very exciting and rewarding experience especially for me. I have learned so much, not only from the lectures but also from the hands-on sessions. At the beginning, some views and techniques were challenging, but with your guidance and encouragement, I have become more confident and interested in echocardiography. The course has really increased my desire to learn and practice more. I am looking forward to continuing to practice more and more so that I can improve my skills and become more confident in performing and interpreting echocardiograms. Thank you very much, Professor, for your patience, support, and excellent teaching throughout this journey. I truly appreciate it

• Student6 Oct 2026, 20:50

  Hallow Professor In my session of learning, I learnt about the normal cardiac measurement and I understand about the importance of PLAX view during the measuring of LV size. Also I understand about the areas which we concentrate more during the measurement and quantification of the cardiac chambers. The lectures also helped me to know the basic measurement of diastole and systole, Thank you professor for the simplified lectures and course materials.

• Student6 Oct 2026, 17:51

  Good evening professor I'm very happy to say that thank you very much for your time, guidance and support.I'm continuing to improve my scanning skills and my understand of how to evaluate different ECHO parameters for making accurate diagnosis. I truly appreciate your help and guidance throughout this learning process

• Student6 Oct 2026, 14:55

  Greetings Prof.Chillo I would like to share my reflection on the on-going echo training which has been progressing very well as I continue to expand my knowledge base and refine my practical skills. The hands-on experience has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to build diagnostic confidence while encountering a wide spectrum of complex cardiac pathologies. Throughout this period, I have had the valuable opportunity to identify and appreciate diverse diagnoses, including HHD, IHD, Pulmonary Hypertension, dilated cardiomyopathy, pulmonary embolism and various other conditions. I am deeply grateful for the mentorship, and I look forward to continuing this momentum to further sharpen my diagnostic capabilities.

• Student6 Oct 2026, 08:04

  Greetings Professor! Since I joined this Echocardiography course until today, I have become familiar with cardiac anatomy, functions, and pathologies. I have learned how to perform Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE), how to obtain all views and measurements, and how to make a diagnosis. What I need now is just hands-on practice to perfect my skills. Respect much for your support 🙏.

• Student6 Oct 2026, 07:42

  I am happy with my scanning progress in this 3rd week. I have improved and I will keep going to get better at scanning.

• Student6 Oct 2026, 07:00

  Good morning Professor. My progress of learning I have improved a lot of things for those areas which have learnt and I appreciate the contribution of lecturers as well as lectures. Also I'm passed through a NORMAL VARIATIONS IN ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY and learnt a lot of things and I understood very well about the lesson, most of angles which have learnt and I understood is how the giant lambl's excrescence can be formed as well as how trabeculation can misdiagnose cardiomyopathy of ventricles. Also I understood a specific area where the benign avascular tumour arising from the normal inner part of the heart. Thank you Professor for the good contribution to us student.

• Student4 Oct 2026, 19:12

  Good evening Professor My learning cession is about DATA ACQUSITION AND STORAGE : Lectures helped me to understand about how to differentiate Sensor and transducer as well as energy related to signal. Also I understand about Signal can be grouped in different ways which relates to energy. Also course materials helped me to understand about Data transmission and the method used in transmission and how to differentiate data and image. Thank you professor for your time and lectures as well as course materials.

• Student4 Oct 2026, 11:38

  Good afternoon Professor. According to my proceeding of learning , I pass through the course materials and lectures and I learnt about the NORMAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY and I understand about the different Scanning maneuvers and how scanning maneuvers applied in different echocardiographic windows. Again I learnt about the CARING FOR THE ECHO MACHINE and I understand about the main components of the ECHO machine and how those component works, Also I learnt how to protect the ECHO machine from the damage as well as maintenance and their types of maintenance. Thank you professor for your support.

• Student3 Oct 2026, 20:43

  Good evening professor: My cession for learning continuation through lectures and reading course materials was very well, today I learnt a lot of things about the ANATOMY OF THE HEART AND LARGE BLOOD VESSELS and I understand more about the normal anatomy of heart, some angles which I passed through it is about what happen when the Anatomists take the heart out for description , I understand also about the organ that support the pulmonary valve as well as how coronary Arteries and pulmonary trunk can be differentiated, On top I understand about the three sinuses found at the aortic root and those two sinuses found in the coronary arteries, also I understand how to differentiate right Atrium and left Atrium. Thank you so much professor for your time for us.

• Professor Pilly ChilloProfessor3 Oct 2026, 03:32

  Dear Participants, thank you very much for your wonderful comments and reflections. I am happy to see your enthusiasm, hard work, and growing confidence as you connect what you learned in the lectures with your hands-on experience. Congratulations on the progress you are making! Please continue practising, asking questions, and making the most of every case you encounter. We are here to guide and support you so that you gain the knowledge and practical skills to perform echo confidently, enabling earlier and more accurate diagnosis and therefore better management of patients in your workplaces. Keep up the excellent work!

• Student2 Oct 2026, 20:44

  Hallow professor: Good evening. Today I pass through my course materials and Listening Lectures about the Probe and Choices and I enjoyed because I understand a lot of things about the probe choice related to the Examination performing , Also I understand about the probe which offer the unique view of cardiac pathology and the probe used for internal examination. Again lectures help me to know the probe used as a monitoring adjunct for operative and percutaneous cardiac procedure. Thank you Professor for a good job your doing to us student, we are proud and enjoying to be with you in a course of basic Echocardiography.

• Student2 Oct 2026, 19:50

  Dear Professor, I would like to sincerely thank you for the excellent teaching and guidance you have taught us in echocardiography. Your explanations and practical approach have made a great difference in my understanding and confidence. During my hands-on practice, I have found it much easier to perform the different echocardiographic windows, and I am now able to obtain them with much greater precision and confidence. Again, this week at JKCI we encountered different cases which topped up the knowledge and skills you have shared with us. I truly appreciate your patience, dedication, and willingness to teach. With sincere appreciation and respect.

• Student2 Oct 2026, 17:44

  Hello professor, I learned a lot, including about HHD, Pulmonary hypertension, and how all findings depend on proper patient positioning and obtaining good windows. However we should not rely solely on echocardiographic examination. We should also encourage all patient with HTN to take their medication regularly, because we see many patient with regular medication have normal echo.

• Student1 Oct 2026, 09:00

  Good morning professor My session of learning for today I learnt about the ECHO windows and Patient positioning and I understand a lot of things very well about this lesson, most of the parameters which I learnt and I understand well through leading the materials and listening the lectures is where sonographer is recommended to be seated when performing the echocardiography, Also how can make easer positioning the transducer and improving of acquisitioning image, also lecture explain very well the views which help us to obtain the images in parasternal and apical window, on top of that I understand the parameters which form ECHO windows as well as advantages and disadvantages of sonographer sitting Right side and Left side of the patient. Thank you very much professor for your support, lectures as well as course materials.

• Student1 Oct 2026, 07:34

  Hello Prof, Good morning. My first hands on session has been very encouraging and interesting as i was able to observe and obtain the basic views on my own came to realise that more practice and participations helps improving my scanning technique. I was able to obtain PLAX, PSAX as well as apical views. Thank you so much for the provided materials and instructions during the session as they help improve my skills.

• Student30 Sept 2026, 15:23

  I have learnt a lesson that "Doing ECHO for the heart is an art, the more you do, the better you become" and with this theme I look forward at a more supervised and self-paced learning to earn more skills

• Professor Pilly ChilloProfessor30 Sept 2026, 15:13

  Hello Emmanuel, great of you sharing your reflections. I am very pleased to see the effort and determination you are putting into catching up with the course; you are making very good progress. Keep up this hard work as you prepare to join the hands-on training; it will certainly help you get the most out of the practical sessions. All the best!

• Student30 Sept 2026, 09:37

  Good morning Professor My lesson session I learnt about the ECHO Reflectivity in different situations and I understand a lot of things concerning ECHO Reflectivity in different situation, some of them are how ultrasound wave are reflected by heart structure in different conditions, Also how normal heart structure and structure around the heart reflect ultrasound, also I understand how the ultrasound reflection pattern change in heart condition. Thank you professor for your lectures and course material.

• Student29 Sept 2026, 12:56

  Hallow Prof. In our lesson concerning about Physics of Ultrasound and Echocardiography, I have appreciated a lot of things we covered in this theory session, including the main component of transducer and their works. Also we learnt about the materials that make Ceramic and the most materials used among of those Ceramic element. Thank you for the lesson and the notes of Physics of ultrasound and Echocardiography.

• Student29 Sept 2026, 07:52

  EMMANUEL BENARD SHILANGA Greetings Prof. My 1st day of learning on line have very well really enjoyed learning through on line and I have appreciate understanding the heart structure and their conditions. Overall: I am very happy with my learning on line and I believe that at the end of this week I will improve more. Thank you very much Prof for your support.

• Student28 Sept 2026, 14:41

  Greetings Prof. The hands-on training has been highly informative, consolidating the theoretical knowledge I gained from my lectures. So much makes sense right now as I practice on the patients. I have significantly improved my skills in identifying key echo windows particularly PLAX, PSAX, apical 4C and 5C views while gaining a deeper understanding of standard measurements and the clinical rationale behind each step. I have enhanced my practical skills in applying M-mode, CW and Doppler modalities for various assessments. Observing a different pathologies, such as PDA, LVH, interatrial aneurysms, TR, MR, and pericardial effusions, has greatly strengthened my understanding and ability to detect these conditions via echocardiography. Looking forward to getting better by the day along with my colleagues. Very grateful for this trainings.

• Student28 Sept 2026, 09:30

  Hello PROF. Thank you so much for the detailed hand on practice, For now i have mastered on how to find all the acoustic windows, seeing and recognizing the normal studies and am looking forward to learn more and more on week 2 and 3 of hand practice.

• Student28 Sept 2026, 06:58

  Thank you prof for the encouragement

• Student28 Sept 2026, 05:09

  My first week of hands-on training has gone very well, and I have really enjoyed learning through practical experience. I have especially appreciated understanding the importance of different echocardiographic measurements, including EF, LAs, IVSd, LVPWd, and other important parameters used in assessing cardiac structure and function. ‎Overall, I am very happy with the experience so far, and I believe we will continue to learn, improve, and gain more confidence in the coming weeks. ‎ ‎Thank you very much, Professor, for your guidance, patience, and support.

• Student28 Sept 2026, 04:49

  Good morning Prof Chillo! I would like to acknowledge the first wk on hand l really appreciate the details of your notes and course materials know as the make sense to me! looking to learn more in this wk. as l started with normal to meaningful for abnomal!! thank you so much Prof and the the whole traineer committee!!

• Student28 Sept 2026, 04:43

  Thankyou so much Prof. We are waiting to learn more on the 2nd week of hands on. On our 1st week we were able to learn on scanning normal adult echo mostly, waiting to scan paed echoes and more pathologies.

• Student28 Sept 2026, 04:33

  G morning prof It has been a detailed hands on practice, i have learnt alot and most of theory notes has make sense now. Im continuing learning, thank you.

• Professor Pilly ChilloProfessor28 Sept 2026, 03:08

  Dear Participants, welcome to your third week of face-to-face training and second week of hands-on practice! As you transition to your new rotation sites today, I wish you a smooth and seamless experience and encourage you to continue with the excellent commitment and hard work you have demonstrated so far. It is wonderful to hear that exposure to real cases is making the concepts taught in class clearer; please continue to ask questions, practise actively and make the most of every learning opportunity. All the best!

• Student27 Sept 2026, 14:33

  Dear Professor, our first week of hands on has gone very well..I have appreciated a lot of the things we covered in the theory session and I am believing that we will get better in the subsequent weeks. Thank you for the notes and the lessons. It's so easy to refer to them over and over.

• Student26 Sept 2026, 08:01

  Hellow Prof and my fellow colleagues l hope all of you are well health on my side l have learned a lot concern about How to find different angles by probe and able to identify 4 chambers anatomically in both genders including to recognize normal parameters confidently under Prof support I really enjoy this course and l hope next at JKCI l will learn more also thanks to my colleagues for their good cooperation to me 🙏be blessed

• Student25 Sept 2026, 21:08

  Dear Prof and my fellow students hope we are all fine. During the hands-on sessions, the session is so interesting hence we can see what we have learnt in classroom sessions on actual images. It came to my attention that to obtain PSAX view I need more practice on probe to get a correct orientation, and it’s a must to know all parameters provided in normal measurement so that I can detect/differentiate to abnormal ones However, with your guidance and corrections, I am gradually becoming more comfortable and confident with the probe positioning and image acquisition. Thank you for being patient with us, explaining and demonstrating the techniques and encouraging that we will be fine after continuous exercising. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and experience with us. I am looking forward to improving more with continued practice

• Student23 Sept 2026, 06:35

  Hello prof Reflecting on week 2, I learned more about normal variations, cardiac chamber measurements, and the assessment of ventricular function. The concepts I found most useful were understanding normal anatomical variations and learning how to measure the cardiac chambers accurately. I realized that not every unusual-looking structure is necessarily pathological, so it is important to assess the finding from different views and consider the clinical context before making an interpretation. I believe this knowledge will help me become more confident when performing and interpreting echocardiograms during practical sessions.

• Student23 Sept 2026, 06:30

  In week 1 discussion I learnt the importance of patient positioning and probe orientation in obtaining good echocardiographic images. I also learned this week that when an image is not clear, we should not rely only on adjusting the machine settings, but consider changing the acoustic window or the patient’s position. This has helped me understand that good ECHO imaging requires both technical skills and a good understanding of cardiac anatomy.

• Student23 Sept 2026, 05:21

  The week 3 of the course, amongst all sessions we have learned, i would like to comment on the Assesment of Pulmonary Hypertension and cor-pulmonale with echocardiography. Pulmonary hypertension is defined as increased mean pulmonary arterial pressure >25mm Hg at test, when assesed by right heart catheterization (RHC). Cor-pulmonale is simply defined as the condition whereby the right heart undergoes morphological/functional changes due to diseases affecting the lungs, pulmonary circulation or breathing process. The measurement of Pulmonary pressure is by invasive and non invasive methods; in which echo is one of the non invasive method. With echocardiography assesment, 1. Flattened ventricular septum (D-sign) 2.Dilated coronary sinus due to increased RA pressure. 3. Doppler methods a.) TR jet velocity b.) Pulmonary acceleration time C.) Pulmonary regurgitant jet method d.) RV isovolumic relaxation time. Also it is important to consider the characteristics of the IVC (if dilated or less or equal to 2.1cm and collapsibility by atleast 50%). Thanks you

• Student22 Sept 2026, 19:16

  Good evening, Prof. During Week 3, I have gained a better understanding of how LV diastolic function is assessed using different echocardiographic parameters. The concept that became clearer to me was the relationship between transmitral flow, particularly the E/A ratio, and tissue Doppler measurements such as e′ and E/e′. I now understand that E/A alone may not always give the complete picture of diastolic function, especially in cases of pseudonormal filling.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 18:25

  after clinical hands on practice , It became clear to me that evaluation of left ventricular filling relies on integrating several echocardiographic parameters such as E/A ratio, e' velocity and E/e', rather than relying on a single index. What I found most difficult was assigning a grade to diastolic dysfunction. Distinguishing between grades is complex because it involves synthesizing multiple measurements that vary with age, body habitus, and cardiac conditions. It requires a systematic approach to conclude whether diastolic function is preserved or impaired. I look foward to learn more.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 16:44

  Good evening, Prof. Thank you for sharing the guideline. It has been very helpful for our practical sessions. Since I started the hands-on training, I have found myself better able to connect what we have covered in theory and during the online sessions with the actual clinical practice. Over the past two days, I have also become much more comfortable with obtaining the different views and optimising them to get accurate measurements. We have started with measurements of the Ao/LA and LV using M-mode and have come across several patients with LV hypertrophy. One of the concepts that has particularly stayed with me is the assessment of diastolic dysfunction. For example, we encountered a patient whose transmitral flow showed a seemingly normal E/A ratio, but after performing tissue Doppler imaging (DTI), we appreciated that the pattern was actually pseudonormal. Seeing these findings directly during the practical sessions has made the concepts much clearer and helped me understand how the different measurements complement each other in clinical assessment. Thank you again for the guidance and for making the practical sessions so valuable.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 16:17

  I hope you are all fine OK to me this week i hve learned the systematic paediatric echocardiography examination that you start with subcstal view looking for the position of Aorta and IVC {Situs solitus},then you look after IAS checking for ASD after that you angulate the probe looking BI-CAVAL VIEW so that you can see IVC and SVC draining to the RA While doing so the image is inverted this differentiate from adult ECHO. After that you go for parasternal long axis where you can view RV,LV,LVOT,MV,AV at this point you can do M-MODE and color Doppler at AV and MV then you tilt the probe to ninety dgree marker pointing to the left shoulder where you can see RVOT,PV,MPA and its branches,,RCC,LCCand NON CC, At this point we apply color Doppler looking for PDA,PR and PS. Then we go for Apical 4 chamber view looking for IVS here you can obsrese well VSD not only that but also you can evaluate TVand mv After that you finish with suprasternal view looking for great vessel i mean Arota and Pulmonary Artery That is what i have learnt Thank you very much

• Student22 Sept 2026, 15:00

  During Week 3, I learned that assessment of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function is important for understanding how well the LV relaxes and fills with blood during diastole. The concept that was very clear to me was the assessment of mitral inflow using E and A waves. I understood that the E wave represents early passive filling of the LV, while the A wave represents filling caused by atrial contraction. I also understood that the E/A ratio helps us recognize different LV filling patterns, such as normal filling and impaired relaxation. I also found the concept of tissue Doppler e′ velocity relatively clear, especially that a reduced e′ suggests impaired LV relaxation. The concept I found difficult to understand was distinguishing between normal filling and pseudonormal filling, and understanding how to use E/e′, LAVI, and TR velocity together to assess LV filling pressure. I found this difficult because the E/A ratio in pseudonormal filling can appear normal even though LV relaxation is impaired. Therefore, I learned that we cannot depend on E/A alone and need additional parameters to determine the actual diastolic function. Overall, Week 3 helped me understand that assessment of LV diastolic function requires combining several echocardiographic measurements rather than relying on one parameter alone. I believe that more practice with real echocardiographic cases and measurements will help me understand the difficult areas better. Thank you

• Student22 Sept 2026, 12:07

  Weak 2 My reflection on Normal echocardiogram variations, Cardiac chamber measurements, and ventricular function Normal variations on an echocardiogram are generally important because not every difference in cardiac size, shape, or function indicates disease. Normal echocardiographic findings can vary with factors such as age, sex, body size, heart rate, blood pressure, and loading conditions. Specifically, contemplating normal variation enables to i. Differentiate normal findings from pathological abnormalities. ii. Interpret cardiac chamber measurements by applying appropriate reference ranges. iii. Avoid overdiagnosis caused by considering a normal variation as a disease. iv. Recognize when an abnormal measurement is clinically significant and requires further assessment. v. Improve the accuracy and confidence of echocardiographic reporting. vi. To differentiate and filter sound wave artifact from normal echocardiogram image In practical training, this knowledge will help me assess each patient's echocardiogram systematically and interpret measurements in the context of the patient's overall clinical condition rather than relying on a single measurement.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 11:34

  SECOND WEEK ECHO DISCUSSION In this week i have learnt to differentiate between normal variation and abnormal findings, common anatomic variants can mimic pathology if not properly investigated during cardiac echocardiography. Assessment of the cardiac should be done by checking dimension, mass and volume and contractility Normal echocardiographic findings may vary depending on factors such as age, body size, sex, and the patient’s clinical status. So it’s important to have proper knowledge and understanding the functional and structural functioning of the heart by doing careful evaluation to limit misinterpretations Global assessment of systolic function is a mainstay in ECHO assessing the systolic function by using linear M-mode, 2D and 3D. by quantification of cardiac chamber assessing the ejection fraction using 2D or biplane modified Simpson’s also assessing the of the left systolic functioning (Eye balling) The left ventricular hypertrophy is the earliest markers of hypertensive heart disease but chamber enlargement may indicate chronic pressure or volume overload, while apparently normal chamber dimensions do not always exclude cardiac dysfunction. Spotting wall motion abnormalities in myocardial ischemia or infarction in regional cardiac during assessment of the cardiac segment in 16/17-segment LV model and matching against the three coronary territories, the LAD, LCx, and RCA, I also gained a better understanding of the importance of assessing right ventricular function and recognizing that ventricular performance depends on more than one measurement.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 11:01

  During Week 3, I learned more about the assessment of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function and how to use different echocardiographic parameters to determine if the diastolic function is normal or dysfunctioning. The concept that was most clear to me and it was importance during assessing the mitral inflow pattern using E and A waves. Early passive filling of the LV presented by E-wave LV filling associated with atrial contraction is presented by A- wave The role of the E/A ratio is also more useful providing information about LV relaxation and filling. The concept I found more difficult to understand was how to integrate the different parameters used to assess diastolic function, particularly E/e′, left atrial volume index (LAVI), and tricuspid velocity. At first, it was difficult for me to understand why several parameters are needed rather than relying on a single measurement. I learned that diastolic function assessment requires an integration of findings because individual parameters can be influenced by age, other health conditions, and other cardiac conditions. During relaxation (filling) of LV, these has four phases 1. Isovolumic Relaxation Time(IVRT): the period difference between aortic valve closure and Mitral valve opening. During aortic valve closure rapid decrease in LV pressure occur and during mitral valve opening the pressure increases rapidly always its determined by the myocardial chamber and filling pressure compliance. 2. Early LV rapid filing (early diastolic filling (E)or passive filling: no extra pressure needed to fill the LV for Bernoulli's principle here the ventricular relaxation occurs 3. Diastasis phase: the phase at the point when the LA and LV pressure are almost normal. 4. Atrial systole/contraction/depolarization (A)/Active pressure filling The methods / approaches that can be used for LV diastolic measurements are invasive approach - cardiac catheterization and noninvasive approach mostly used in most of our facilities In MV in-flow measurements we obtain five measurements and record as follows: 1. Peak of early filling (E) 2. Peak of atrial (late) filling (A) 3. The E/A ratio 4. E- wave deceleration time (DT) 5. Isovolumic Relaxation Time (IVRT) I have also learned how to stage the LV dysfunction grading in the following features: - Normal- E/A ratio 0.8-2, DT= 150-200ms, IVRT= 50-100ms Grade 1 Delayed relaxation -E/A ratio<0.8, DT>=240ms, IVRT >=100 Grade 2 Pseudo normal - E/A ratio 0.8-2, IVRT<150 Grade 3 Restrictive -can be reversible or irreversible: E/A ratio >2, DT < 160, IVRT <80 Tissue Doppler/ pulsed wave Doppler -of mitral annulus in both lateral In septal when E/e’ <8 indicate normal E/E >15 means elevated LVFP In lateral E/e’ >12 is high LVFP and the average should be >13 Tissue Doppler must be done whenever you suspect LV dysfunction and Valsalva maneuver for suspected of restrictive pattern or in pseudo normal pattern. The LA size or volume in either vertical diameter or in M-mode on PLAX. I will apply this learning during my hands-on echocardiography training by making sure that I obtain good-quality images and accurately measure the relevant parameters rather than relying on one measurement alone. When interpreting echocardiograms, I will systematically assess the mitral inflow pattern, tissue Doppler findings, and other relevant parameters and then integrate them with the patient's clinical information. This will help in recognizing normal diastolic function and identifying possible diastolic dysfunction in patients. Overall, this week has helped me appreciate that assessment of LV diastolic function requires careful measurement, integration of multiple echocardiographic findings, and clinical correlation. I still need more practice in applying the criteria to actual patients, but I now feel somehow gaining confident in understanding the basic principles and interpreting the findings systematically.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 10:55

  Hello prof, well I have learned a lot from these echo sessions, especially how to obtain and interpret different views and how to assess LV and RV function. I now understand measurements like EF by Simpson’s method and TAPSE, and how valve disease can affect the chambers and ventricular function. I think I still need more practice in putting all the findings together and making a complete echo interpretation.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 10:49

  I understood well how to assess LV diastolic function using different echocardiographic parameters The concept I found most challenging was interpreting the E/A ratio and E/e′ ratio and integrating them with other parameters to grade diastolic dysfunction. I found it difficult because the values of these measurements can vary depending on the patient’s age and clinical condition, and no single measurement is sufficient to make a diagnosis. Therefore, I needed to understand better how the different parameters are used together to distinguish normal diastolic function from diastolic dysfunction.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 10:21

  Assessment of LV Diastolic Function Clear Concept The most understandable concept was the basic assessment of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function using echocardiographic parameters are mitral inflow E/A ratio. The E wave indicates early passive ventricular filling, whereas the A wave represents filling triggered by atrial contraction. The E/A ratio provides useful information about LV relaxation and filling during diastole. The difficult or challenging part to understand was integration of multiple parameters to determine the grade of LV diastolic dysfunction, particularly when assessing E/e′, left atrial volume index (LAVI), and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) velocity together. The challenging part is because of holistic interpretation of the parameters rather than individually and respective cut of points of the values changing depending on factors such as age, heart rate, loading conditions, and myocardial relaxation. Why it was difficult is from remembering the different cutoff values and understanding how to combine them to distinguish normal diastolic function from impaired relaxation, pseudo normal filling, and restrictive filling patterns.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 09:37

  Good afternoon prof, This is what I've learnt on systolic and dystolic function. 1. Systolic function, prescribed how effective the left ventricles contracts and ejects blood. In systolic function we consider Ejectory fraction (E/F) and regional LV systolic function. A patient can have a normal LVEF but abnormal regional contraction.For example, after myocardial infarction, a patient may have LVEF 55% but reduced thickening and inward movement in several segments. 2. Diastolic function, tells how well does the LV relax and fill, and what pressure is required to fill it? Here we measure LV relaxation using tissue doppler, filling of the left ventricles we measure E/A ratio whether there is Normal → impaired relaxation → pseudonormal → restrictive filling and lastly E/e' measures filling pressure..

• Student22 Sept 2026, 09:20

  Hello prof. For week 3 Discussion I have tried to outline the well understood area and challenging ones: -Assessment of LV Diastolic Function One concept that was very clear to me this week was the different patterns of LV diastolic filling. I understood that normal diastolic filling depends on adequate LV relaxation and compliance, allowing the ventricle to receive blood at relatively low filling pressures. The progression from normal filling to impaired relaxation, pseudonormal filling, and restrictive filling was also clear. In particular, I understood that the mitral inflow Doppler measurements, including the E wave, A wave, E/A ratio, deceleration time (DT), and IVRT, help identify these patterns. For example, an E/A ratio below 1 generally suggests impaired relaxation, while an E/A ratio of ≥2 with a short DT suggests a restrictive pattern. The concept I found a bit challanging was distinguishing a pseudonormal filling pattern from a truly normal pattern and accurately estimating LV filling pressure. The difficulty is that the mitral inflow pattern in pseudonormal filling can appear similar to normal filling, even though the patient has impaired relaxation and elevated filling pressures. Therefore, E/A ratio alone may not be sufficient. I found it challenging to integrate the additional parameters, particularly tissue Doppler E′, the E/E′ ratio, left atrial volume, and the response to the Valsalva manoeuvre. The explanation that tissue Doppler can “unmask” a pseudonormal pattern helped me understand why several echocardiographic measurements need to be considered together. I also found the relationship between E/E′ and LV filling pressure useful, although remembering the different septal, lateral, and average cut-off values requires further practice. Overall, this lecture helped me appreciate that assessment of LV diastolic function is not based on a single measurement. A systematic interpretation of mitral inflow, tissue Doppler, left atrial size, and other supportive findings is important, particularly when assessing patients with symptoms such as dyspnoea and suspected heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 09:08

  Good morning Prof. The concept that was very clear to me was the different LV diastolic filling patterns, especially normal filling, impaired relaxation, pseudonormal, and restrictive patterns. I also understood the importance of *E/A ratio, deceleration time (DT), and IVRT* in assessing these patterns. The concept I found difficult was distinguishing the pseudonormal pattern from a normal pattern. This was challenging because their mitral inflow measurements can appear similar, so additional assessment such as *tissue Doppler and E/E′ * is needed to identify raised LV filling pressure for clarity on challenging cases. Overall, Week 3 helped me understand that assessing LV diastolic function requires looking at several Doppler parameters together rather than relying on one measurement alone.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 08:58

  I have understood that Diastolic function reflects how well the LV relaxes and fills at low filling pressures.I also learnt how to assess the key parameters: Mitral E/A ratio, E/e′, LA volume index, and TR velocity and also the Classification of diastolic dysfunction as normal, Grade I (impaired relaxation), Grade II (pseudonormal), or Grade III (restrictive).

• Student22 Sept 2026, 08:57

  Parameters to assess left ventricular (LV) diastolic function were very clear. The concept I found more difficult to understand was grading the severity of LV diastolic dysfunction and distinguishing between normal filling patterns and pseudonormal patterns.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 08:54

  I understood that diastole is not one event but has four phases: • Isovolumic relaxation (AV closed, MV still closed) • Rapid early filling (E wave) • Diastasis (slow filling) • Atrial contraction (A wave) 2. WHAT I UNDERSTOOD WELL a) The Role of Mitral Inflow Doppler (E and A waves) This was the clearest part. Using PW Doppler at the mitral leaflet tips in Apical 4-chamber view: • E wave: Early rapid filling due to LA-LV pressure gradient. Represents LV relaxation. • A wave: Filling due to atrial kick (atrial contraction). • Normal E/A ratio is 0.8 to 2.0 in adults, with E slightly greater than A. • Deceleration Time (DT): Time taken for E wave to fall to baseline. Normal 160-240ms. b) Other supporting parameters • LA volume index: LA dilates when diastolic pressure is chronically high. >34 ml/m2 is abnormal and suggests chronic diastolic dysfunction. • TR velocity: >2.8 m/s suggests high pulmonary pressure secondary to high LA pressure. C) Grading of Diastolic Dysfunction (ASE 2016 guideline) I understood the simplified grading: • Grade I (Impaired relaxation): E/A <0.8, E/e' <10, DT >200ms. Normal LA pressure. • Grade II (Pseudonormal): E/A 0.8-2.0, E/e' 10-14, LA enlarged. This is tricky because it looks normal but is abnormal. • Grade III (Restrictive): E/A >2, DT <160ms, E/e' >14, LA enlarged. High filling pressure, severe. 3. WHAT WAS DIFFICULT FOR ME a) Differentiating Normal from Pseudonormal (Grade I vs Grade II) This was the most confusing part. Both have E/A between 0.8-2.0. I found it difficult to understand why one is normal and the other is abnormal. I later learned we must use Valsalva maneuver, e', and LA volume to differentiate, but in practice it is still difficult.

• Student22 Sept 2026, 08:38

  Helloo professor, I learnt how to assess Lv diastoric filling patterns normal, impaired relaxation, pseudo-normal and restrictive patterns .

• Student22 Sept 2026, 00:48

  Good morning Professor. I have learnt how to assess the left diastolic function on Echo. The invasive method will require catheterization. With the non invasive methods the mitral inflow velocities are used. E/A ratio, Deceleration time of the E velocity. This is calculated when in A4 chamber view, at the mitral valve, using pulsed wave measurements to get the E/A rations and DT . It is important to define some abnormal patterns with reference to age and heart rate . Especially when you have a restrictive pattern in an elderly patient.

• Student21 Sept 2026, 17:11

  Good evening Prof And my fellow coursemates. On LV diastolic function describes how well the left ventricle relaxes and fills with blood during diastole. In echocardiography, we mainly assess LV relaxation, LV filling pressure, LA response, mitral inflow, and tissue Doppler. For mitral inflow, PW Doppler is placed at the tips of the mitral valve leaflets in the apical 4-chamber view. We measure: -E wave– early passive LV filling. - A wave – filling caused by atrial contraction. Grading Grade I – Impaired relaxationThe LV relaxes poorly, so early filling decreases and E/A < 0.8. Grade II–Pseudonormal: LV relaxation is still impaired, but increased LA pressure pushes more blood into the LV during early diastole. Therefore, the filling pattern looks almost normal, with E/A around 0.8–2. Grade III – Restrictive filling:The LV is very stiff and filling pressure is markedly increased. Early filling becomes very rapid, so E/A > 2.

• Student21 Sept 2026, 16:26

  The third week sessions were so complex but am still learnin by repeating the sessions, what I have learnt In LV diastolic function I get an ideal that: - The heart needs contractions and relaxation for proper functioning, during relaxation the left ventricle fills blood from systemic and during contraction the blood is pushed out The LA contracts to fill the LV, LA contraction phase ends with MV closure influenced by LV compliance. During relaxation (filling) of LV, these has four phases 1. Isovolumic Relaxation Time(IVRT): the period difference between aortic valve closure and Mitral valve opening.During aortic valve closure rapid decrease in LV pressure occur and during mitral valve opening the pressure increases rapidly always its determined by the myocardial chamber and filling pressure compliance 2. Early LV rapid filing (early diastolic filling (E)/ passive filling: no extra pressure needed to fill the LV for Bernoulli's principle here the ventricular relaxation occurs 3. Diastasis phase: the phase at the point when the LA and LV pressure are almost normal. 4. Atrial systole/contraction/depolarization (A)/Active pressure filling Methods / approaches that can be used for LV diastolic measurements  Invasive approach - cardiac catheterization  Noninvasive approach mostly used in most of our facilities In MV in-flow measurements we obtain five measurements and record as follows: 1. Peak of early filling (E) 2. Peak of atrial (late) filling (A) 3. The E/A ratio 4. E- wave deceleration time (DT) 5. Isovolumic Relaxation Time (IVRT) How to stage the LV dysfunction by using the aboved  Normal- E/A ratio 0.8-2, DT= 150-200ms, IVRT= 50-100ms  Grade 1 Delayed relaxation -E/A ratio<0.8, DT>=240ms, IVRT >=100  Grade 2 Pseudo normal - E/A ratio 0.8-2, IVRT<150  Grade 3 Restrictive -can be reversible or irreversible: E/A ratio >2, DT < 160, IVRT <80  Tissue Doppler/ pulsed wave Doppler -of mitral annulus in both lateral In septal when E/e’ <8 indicate normal E/E >15 means elevated LVFP In lateral E/e’ >12 is high LVFP and the average should be >13 Tissue Doppler must be done whenever you suspect LV dysfunction and Valsalva maneuver for suspected of restrictive pattern or in pseudo normal pattern. The LA size or volume in either vertical diameter or in M-mode on PLAX. Thanks in advance to all teachers who are committed to make sure that we all understand what we are supposed to know a

• Student21 Sept 2026, 10:09

  Hello Prof l would like to appreciate the concept which was clear: Lv function describes how lv relax to fill blood during diastole in pt after evaluation of ejection fraction The following are to be considered: LV Relax LA response ie size / volume Mitral Inflow paterns Filling blood Pressure. With Doppler l will observe these; E- waves A-Atrial contraction The normal E/A Ratio is 0.8-2 These are graded accoding to severity on impaired relaxation! Grade l= lmpaired relaxation with EA <0.8 finction normally Grade ll= lmpaired LV relax but increased LA pressure Grade lll= Restricted filling E/A >2 Grade IV= severe restricted and beyond repair Note: If find difficult in measument and use of m- mode in reporting of pt.

• Student20 Sept 2026, 19:25

  Respected Professor and my fellow colleagues, good evening. How are you all this evening? From what we discussed about LV diastolic function here are my concern LV diastolic function means the relaxation and filling of LV, these has four phase; 1. Isovolumic Relaxation Time(IVRT): the time/period difference between OV closure and MV opening 2. Early LV rapid filing (E)/ passive filling: no extra pressure needed to fill the LV for Bernoulli's principle 3. Diastasis phase : the phase at the point when the LA and LV pressure are almost normal. 4. Atrial systole/contraction/depolarization (A)/Active pressure filling: the extra pressure needed to fill the LV so the LA contract at this phase ends in MV closure influenced by LV compliance. From the aboved concept there are main two methods/ approaches that can be used for LV diastolic measurements A. Invasive approach - cardiac catheterization B. Non invasive approach: these we discussed much as we are going to practice more in our settings . Now, these non invasive approaches are I. Mitral in-flow pattern II. Tissue Doppler/ pulsed wave Doppler on mitral annulus III. Valsalva maneuver IV. LA size/volume In MV in-flow measurements we obtains five measurements and recordings as follow; 1. Peak of early filling (E) 2. Peak of atrial (late) filling (A) 3. The E/A ratio 4. E- wave deceleration time (DT) 5. Isovolumic Relaxation Time (IVRT) How to stage the LV dysfunction by using the aboved Normal: E/A ratio 0.8-2, DT= 150-200ms, IVRT= 50-100ms Delayed relaxation (LV diastolic dysfunction grade I); E/A ratio<0.8, DT>=240ms, IVRT >=100 Pseudo normal (grade ii): E/A ratio 0.8-2, IVRT<150 Restrictive (grade III) can be reversible or irreversible: E/A ratio >2, DT < 160, IVRT <80 Then use tissue Doppler/ pulsed wave Doppler of mitral annulus in both lateral and septal where is E/E` in septal <8 indicate normal, if >15 means elevated LVFP In lateral E/E` >12 is high LVFP But the average is >13 There for do tissue Doppler whenever you suspect LV dysfunction Do also valsalva maneuver for suspected of restrictive pattern or in pseudo normal pattern. The LA size or volume in either vertical diameter or in M-mode on PLAx. Best wishes to you all for the hands-on practice rotations.

• Student20 Sept 2026, 19:13

  Hello proff, good evening The concept that was most clear to me in diastolic dysfunction was the role of mitral inflow Doppler, particularly the E and A waves and the E/A ratio. The concept I found more difficult was grading diastolic dysfunction. Understanding how to combine left atrial volume index, and tricuspid regurgitation velocity to determine filling pressure required more careful interpretation. I have also realized that I need more practice with Doppler measurements and the grading algorithm to become more comfortable applying the concepts to actual echocardiographic cases. It was well interactive lectures throughout the week however the paediatric echocardiography session was quite challenging because some of the concepts and measurements were new and required more attention to understand. I remember as you said take a deep breath trying to relate what we remember from the notes to what we actually see on the echocardiographic images. Thankyou so much proff.

• Student20 Sept 2026, 19:13

  Hello proff, good evening The concept that was most clear to me in diastolic dysfunction was the role of mitral inflow Doppler, particularly the E and A waves and the E/A ratio. The concept I found more difficult was grading diastolic dysfunction. Understanding how to combine left atrial volume index, and tricuspid regurgitation velocity to determine filling pressure required more careful interpretation. I have also realized that I need more practice with Doppler measurements and the grading algorithm to become more comfortable applying the concepts to actual echocardiographic cases. It was well interactive lectures throughout the week however the paediatric echocardiography session was quite challenging because some of the concepts and measurements were new and required more attention to understand. I remember as you said take a deep breath trying to relate what we remember from the notes to what we actually see on the echocardiographic images. Thankyou so much proff.

• Student20 Sept 2026, 18:45

  G. Evening Prof. For Week 3? The concept that was very clear to me was the assessment of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function using echocardiographic parameters. I understood that parameters such as mitral inflow E/A ratio, tissue Doppler e′ velocity, and E/e′ ratio are used together to assess how well the left ventricle relaxes and fills during diastole. I also understood that no single parameter should always be interpreted in isolation. The most difficult concept was grading the severity of LV diastolic dysfunction and distinguishing between the different grades. This was challenging because several echocardiographic measurements must be interpreted together, and their values can vary with factors such as age, BMI, and underlying cardiac disease. Understanding how the different parameters fit together to determine whether diastolic function is normal or impaired required careful interpretation and practice. But there are some topics like writing and interpreting ECHO reports and knobology in ECHO we have not yet been taught in a class. Thank you.

• Student20 Sept 2026, 17:00

  good evening prof. This week's lectures significantly improved my understanding of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function and its role in evaluating patients with symptoms of heart failure despite having a preserved ejection fraction, the concept that became very clear to me was that assessment of diastolic function should not rely on a single echocardiographic parameter instead, it requires integrating multiple measurements, including the mitral inflow pattern (E/A ratio), tissue Doppler e′ velocity, E/e′ ratio and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) velocity. I now appreciate how combining these findings provides a more accurate estimate of LV filling pressures and diastolic function...........................The concept I found most challenging was grading diastolic dysfunction, particularly distinguishing between Grade II (pseudonormal filling) and Grade III (restrictive filling). These patterns can appear similar, especially when relying only on mitral inflow Doppler and I found it challenging because the interpretation depends on integrating several variables rather than following a single straightforward measurement

• Student20 Sept 2026, 16:56

  Dear profesor......clear concept on Assessment of Left Ventricular (LV) Diastolic Function on my side — LV diastolic function describes how well the left ventricle relaxes and fills with blood during diastole. In echocardiography, we mainly asses LV relaxation LV filling pressures LA response Mitral inflow and tissue Doppler And in Mitral inflow — Pulsed-wave Doppler Place PW Doppler at the tips of the mitral valve leaflets in the apical 4-chamber view. Measure: E wave = early passive LV filling A wave = filling by atrial contraction. Meaning Normal relaxation/filling Is between 0.8-2 GRADE I (Impaired relaxation) means LV does not relax properly and early filling is reduced E/A below 0.8 GRADE 2 This is the most confusing grade LV relaxation is impaired but increased LA pressure push blood into LV during eary diastole and E/A ration aproximately 0.8-2. GRADE 3(restrictive filling) Means that LV is very stiff lead to filling pressure markly dilated E/A ration will be 》2 Simply concept.... NORMAL LV > Relax well>Room expand easily>blood enter easily > normal filling pressure DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION : LV become stiff/relax poorly> Room does not expand properly>more pressure is needed to fill> increased LV filling pressure

• Student20 Sept 2026, 16:52

  Greetings. Here is my reflection on week 3 regarding LV diastolic function; The concept that was very clear was on the LV diastolic filling patterns using the non invasive methods using mitral inflow measurements which are recorded by pulse wave doppler in apical 4 chamber view and the tissue doppler studies, also the grades of diastolic dysfunction with reference to the E/A ratio, deceleration time,Isovolumic relaxation time and E/E prime as the estimated measure of LV filling pressure on tissue doppler studies. Additionally, i have understood on adjunct use of LA size determination in the assessment of the LV filling pressures and that LA can help determine the chronicity of the LV filling pressure. The concept i found difficult to understand was the use of valsava maneuver in the assessment of the filling pressures, However after reading further i have understood the concept and how it is used as an adjunct to the trans-mitral inflow measurement to unmask the elevated filing pressure specifically the pseudo normal pattern which is grade 1 diastolic dysfunction. Generally, the lecture was very informative and the questions at the end helped to better understand how to use the trans-mitral measurement and the tissue doppler studies to identify the different patterns of diastolic dysfunction.

• Student19 Sept 2026, 21:14

  Greetings Professor, Thank you for the lecture on left ventricular diastolic function. The central idea I took from it is that diastole unfolds as four sequential phases: isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), early rapid filling (E), diastasis, and atrial systole (A), and that disease distorts this sequence in a predictable direction. What I found clearest was the spectral character of diastolic function: impaired relaxation is an early abnormality (E/A < 1, DT ≥ 240 ms, IVRT ≥ 100 ms), restriction is a late one (E/A ≥ 2, DT < 160 ms, IVRT ≤ 80 ms), and normal filling (E/A 1–2, DT 150–200 ms, IVRT 50–100 ms) lies between them. Conceiving of the four patterns as positions along an axis of severity, rather than as discrete categories, was more useful to me than memorising the numbers, because it allowed me to anticipate how each haemodynamic disturbance remodels the mitral inflow profile. The point I found most difficult was pseudonormal filling and its distinction from normal diastolic function. In the pseudonormal pattern, the E/A ratio is restored to the normal band (approximately 0.8–1.5) and the deceleration time is 150–200 ms, so the profile is similar to the numerical criteria for normal filling. The difficulty is therefore conceptual rather than numerical: elevated left atrial pressure restores the E wave despite persisting impairment of myocardial relaxation, so that the underlying abnormality is concealed rather than absent. Because the pseudonormal E/A ratio sits within the normal band, the patient cannot be graded on transmitral inflow alone, and tissue Doppler interrogation of mitral annular e′ velocity becomes necessary to unmask the true filling pattern. The judgement of when to proceed to these ancillary manoeuvres is one I have not yet internalised, and I would be grateful for your guidance on three related points: For a patient whose transmitral profile appears entirely normal, is tissue Doppler interrogation still required in every case to know if it is pseudonormal or only when additional features, for example, left atrial enlargement, raise suspicion? In atrial fibrillation, I know that because atrial contraction is lost, the A wave is abolished, so the E/A ratio cannot be used; however, I am unsure which parameters should replace it when assessing diastolic dysfunction in atrial fibrillation

• Student19 Sept 2026, 19:23

  Hello Prof. Good evening! Thank you so much for such an insightful and engaging session, I particularly enjoyed the way you explained diastolic function and connected it to real clinical patients. This practical approach has made this topic that felt complex, much easier to understand. On Friday, We had a session on Paeds Echo, was very useful, though more complicated compared to the adult, but i believe it will get better with hands on. I truly appreciate the knowledge and experience you continue to share with us, and cant wait for more hands on practice for what we have been learning.

• Professor Pilly ChilloProfessor19 Sept 2026, 11:47

  Yes, Yona. I agree, it is not easy. So, we need to do a lot of reading and repeat the lectures in case you want to re-cap. Otherwise, most of the concepts will come clear during the 3-weeks' hands-on practice in real patients. All the best!

• Student19 Sept 2026, 11:42

  Hello Prof, We have gone through several classroom sessions. Although it was not easy, I have managed to catch up on a lot of the studies and topics we have covered. In yesterday’s last session with Sir Mlay, we covered Nobology in Echocardiography.

• Professor Pilly ChilloProfessor16 Sept 2026, 04:13

  Dear Participants, Dr. Mlay will be taking you through all of today’s lectures, and I will not be coming to Mloganzila today. Wishing you an engaging and fruitful day of learning, and I look forward to catching up with you again tomorrow. All the best! Enjoy the day!

• Student14 Sept 2026, 18:54

  Hello professor! During the week 2, I learned normal variations in echocardiography and we should to assess both LV regional and Global systolic function.

• Student14 Sept 2026, 04:58

  Hello Prof, For the 2nd week materials, I have learnt on how to assess the cardiac structure, chamber size, and global or regional function. Also I have learnt that Biplane Simpson’s method is useful for irregular LV function or regional abnormalities. Preserved LVEF does not exclude regional dysfunction. Chiari network and Eustachian valve are normal right-atrial variants. RV contraction is predominantly longitudinal, and TAPSE assesses RV systolic function. And Findings should always be interpreted systematically and in the clinical context.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 21:09

  Thank You fo the 2nd week materials , I ws more interested on the measurement of EF and how to estimate it because it is the hallmark of the current management of patient of Heart disease.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 20:00

  Hello evening everyone. The most useful part of Week 2 on understanding normal variations, cardiac chamber measurements and ventricular function. For me: - ‎ ‎I learned that not every difference seen on an echocardiogram means there is a disease. Things like chambers size and shape should be observed clearly not to mistake normal variants from pathologies as the affect the appearance and measurements of the heart. This will help me be more careful when interpreting findings. ‎ ‎I also found the proper measurement of the cardiac chambers and assessment of LV and RV function very important. I especially learned that getting the correct views and good-quality images is essential before taking measurements. As it is well recommended that its good to take the quantitative measurements of the RV instead of just relying on the qualitative relation with the LV despite its anatomical variations and difficulties to get the accurate quantitative measurements. ‎ ‎During the hands-on training, I will try to apply what I have learned by positioning the patient correctly, obtaining the standard views, optimizing the images, taking accurate measurements and assessing ventricular function systematically. Thank you!

• Student13 Sept 2026, 19:58

  Hello professor!. During Week 2 sessions, I have learnt to differentiate normal anatomical variants from pathological findings. I also learned the importance of accurate cardiac chamber measurements while considering age, sex, and body size. This will help me avoid misdiagnosis. I learned different methods of assessing ventricular function, including LV ejection fraction, Simpson’s method, eyeballing, regional wall motion assessment, and TAPSE for RV function. I also learned about LV diastolic function and the importance of assessing cardiac function systematically. These lessons will help me during clinical practice by improving my image acquisition, measurement accuracy, and interpretation of echocardiographic findings. I will use appropriate views, confirm findings from different windows, and relate results to the patient’s clinical condition for better diagnostic accuracy.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 18:26

  Good evening everyone During this 2nd week, i learned the importance of understanding normal variations, accurate cardiac chamber measurements and assessment of ventricular function in echocardiography. I have learned that left ventrical dimension, volume, wall thickness, ejection fraction, systolic and diastolic function are more useful. I also learned that measurement should be done using the correct echocardiography view and technique while considering normal variation between individuals. During hand on training, i will apply my knowledge by obtaining good quality images, taking accurate meassurement, comparing findings with normal reference values and assesing ventricular function This will help me to recognize normal findings as well as abnormalities during performing and enterpreting echocardiograms. Thank you

• Student13 Sept 2026, 16:36

  Good evening everyone , on this 2nd week ,I have learned that accurate echocardiographic assessment requires good image quality, proper technique, and systematic interpretation. I found it particularly useful to differentiate normal anatomical variants, such as the Eustachian valve, Chiari network, Thebesian valve, and prominent crista terminalis, from pathology to avoid misdiagnosis. I also learned the importance of accurate and standardized measurement of cardiac chambers, especially LV and LA size, volume, mass, and function. Proper imaging planes, timing, and methods such as the biplane Simpson’s method are essential for reliable assessment of LV systolic function and LVEF. Another important concept was distinguishing global from regional LV function. Assessing RWMA and calculating WMSI helps identify and grade ischemia by relating abnormal segments to coronary territories. I will apply these concepts by systematically assessing LV segments, considering loading conditions and other causes of wall-motion abnormalities, and correlating echocardiographic findings with clinical information to improve diagnostic accuracy and reporting. Thank you.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 13:46

  Greetings Prof. Reflecting on this week, my perspective on echocardiography has changed and the most valuable lesson was assessment of LV systolic function both regional and global as this will help me identify wall motion abnormalities and which coronary arteries are involved. A new concept that i learned was about the qualitative method of LV systolic function assessment (eyeballing) and this was interesting to know that with more practice an experience I will be able to use this technique alongside the quantitative method of assessing LV systolic function. For me these are crucial concepts to understand as they serve on the most common indication for an echocardiography which is assessment of LV systolic function particulary in heart failure. Generally, week 2 lectures have been very challenging in that there are a lot of new concepts that need me to consolidate with the hands-on training for better understanding. However, learning about normal variations in echocardiography has made me alert in the interpretations of the findings in that some interpretations may be false positive simply because of lack of the normal variations such as the eustachian valve. Secondly, the concept of regional wall motion abnormalities has also widened my understanding on why Regional assessment of LV and RV systolic function is important apart from the global assessment to identify localized damages such as myocardial infarction which also reflects what coronary artery has been involved. I have also learned about the assesment of RV systolic function via TAPSE and that we shouldn't overlook right ventricular pathologies. Additionally, the understanding of the cardiac cycle, pressure gradients and LV diastole and evaluation of the phases provide insights into the cardiovascular diseases and the clinical outcomes. Grateful for this opportunity. Best regards.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 13:44

  From week 2 ,one of valuable concept was learning about normal cardiac chambers dimensionS and recognizing normal phsyiological variations,also understanding how age , sex and body surface area can have influence on chamber size has shown me the importance of avoiding overdiagnsing or underdiagnosing based on only measurements. during hand on skills will interprete the measurements in conjuction with patient clinical presentations rather in isolation

• Student13 Sept 2026, 10:52

  In this week i have learnt to differentiate between normal variation and abnormal findings, common anatomic variants can mimic pathology if not properly investigated during cardiac echocardiography. Assessment of the cardiac should be done by checking dimension, mass and volume and contractility Normal echocardiographic findings may vary depending on factors such as age, body size, sex, and the patient’s clinical status. So it’s important to have proper knowledge and understanding the functional and structural functioning of the heart by doing careful evaluation to limit misinterpretations Global assessment of systolic function is a mainstay in ECHO assessing the systolic function by using linear M-mode, 2D and 3D. by quantification of cardiac chamber assessing the ejection fraction using 2D or biplane modified Simpson’s also assessing the of the left systolic functioning (Eye balling) The left ventricular hypertrophy is the earliest markers of hypertensive heart disease but chamber enlargement may indicate chronic pressure or volume overload, while apparently normal chamber dimensions do not always exclude cardiac dysfunction. Spotting wall motion abnormalities in myocardial ischemia or infarction in regional cardiac during assessment of the cardiac segment in 16/17-segment LV model and matching against the three coronary territories, the LAD, LCx, and RCA, I also gained a better understanding of the importance of assessing right ventricular function and recognizing that ventricular performance depends on more than one measurement.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 08:54

  In the second week of the ECHO training, I have found the sessions well interestend and with crucial importance to be well understood and applied in practice, lessons of Normal variations in echocardiography, Measurements of the Left ventricular systolic and diastolic functions, amongst other important lessons. The normal variations in echocardiography, i have found much interests unto, as knowing to dufferentiate between the normal variants and abnormalities is important, so to avoid misdiagnosis. As we learnt that most variants are mainly in the Right atrium because during our embryological life, the Right atrium is very active, and the variants arise ffom the remnants of embryological physiological activities. In the RA variants are as; Eustachian valve, Chiari network, crista terminalis, Lipamatous hypertrohy of the interatrial septum, Atrial septal aneurysm and dilated sinus. Other variants found in the Left ventricle is false tendons, also aortic valve mass, and papilary fibroelastoma can be found in attached at the aortic valve. However there are other variants in the Right ventricle like the moderator band, Heavy trabeculations, and other papilary muscles. So understanding these variants is crucial in differentiating a normal echo from abnormal. Lastly; the Quantification of LV size by M mode, and 2D, also estimation of their Systolic function by M-mode (Teichholz method) , 2D both biplane and mono plane simpsons method, can be used to asses the Ejection fraction (EF)%: which can be graded as normal when above 50%, or Heart failure with mildly reduced EF when its 41-49%, Heart failure with reduced EF when its below 40%. So this is about Global systolic function assesment. As for Regional systolic function assesment. The regional wall motions are assed which they are about 16 to 17, and graded from normal, hypokinesia,akinesia,dyskinesia and aneurysmal which entirely a wall motion index score can be done, by attaining a score of a particular wall region out of 16, divided by number of walls assesed e.g 16/16 = 1 which corresponds to normal EF, or 48/16 = 3, which corresponds to hypokinesia as seen in Ischemic heart diseases. Thank you.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 08:14

  Hello, for 2nd week , in normal variant echocardiography, I learned that not every mobile or prominent structure seen should represent pathology, as the heart contains several normal anatomical variants, such as the Chiari network and Eustachian valves, among others. Most useful concept in this is dont diagnose a cardiac mass from one echocardiographic view, application hands on is to obtain different views and compare its appearance with known normal anatomical structures. Normal cardiac measurements in 2D and M mode; i have learned that ECHO requires standardized measurements for LV, LA, RA, RV and, aorta, most useful concept is correctly anatomical plane and at the correct phase of cardiac cycle for good image acquisition. Methods for assessment of global LV systolic function: several methods are used to assess global LV systolic function but few to mention Simpsons method for LVEF, therefore LVEF is important but it is not the only measurement of LV systolic function. Methods for assessment of regional LV systolic function: i have learnt that LV may have regional wall abnormalities even when the overall EF is normal, as there are 16/17 segment model, this means we need to always assess each LV wall systematically rather than looking only at the overall contraction, hands on need to use systematic sequence from Apical 4 chamber to parasternal short axis. Methods for assessment of global RV systolic function: i have learnt it is different from LV assessments as it has complex geometry such as TAPSE; This weeks, has been understandable but also needs much of mathematics though the machine can calculate them automatically in order to state if its normal, increased or decreased. Thank you.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 07:20

  Good morning everyone, from what I learnt on week 2 online lecture, The heart as other organs is unexceptional from normal variants, there for as a sonographer I suppose to be careful on assessing cardiac chambers with multiple views as this variations mimic and misdiagnosed to pathologies. I wish you nice and blessed Sunday thank you🙏

• Student13 Sept 2026, 06:15

  During Week 2, I learned important concepts about normal variations in echocardiography, cardiac chamber measurements, and assessment of ventricular function. One of the most useful concepts for me was learning how to differentiate normal anatomical variations from pathological findings. Recognizing these normal variants is therefore important to avoid misdiagnosis, unnecessary investigations, and anxiety for the patient. ‎ ‎Overall, Week 2 has helped me understand that accurate echocardiography is not only about obtaining measurements, but also about recognizing normal anatomy, obtaining good-quality images, using appropriate measurement techniques, and interpreting the findings in the correct clinical context. Thank you professor 🙏

• Student13 Sept 2026, 03:16

  Week 2 of the ECHO was full of dense but very clinically relevant material connecting structural, functional and chamber-specific assessment. The most important concept for me was the left ventricular mass index (LVMI), given how prevalent hypertension is among our patients and how left ventricular hypertrophy remains one of the earliest and most consequential markers of hypertensive heart disease; I learned that LV mass is calculated using the linear, M-mode-derived method with values above roughly 115 g/m² in men and 95 g/m² in women defining hypertrophy. I learned how to think about systolic function on two levels: globally, where you can get a quick read by eyeballing the ejection fraction or be more precise with Simpson's biplane method, and regionally, which meant getting comfortable with the 16/17-segment LV model and matching it up against the three coronary territories, the LAD, LCx, and RCA, since that's really the key to spotting wall motion abnormalities from ischaemia or infarction. Another important concept was of LV diastolic filling pressure measurements, which depend on mitral inflow (E, A, E/A ratio, deceleration time (DT), and isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT)) plus tissue Doppler (e', a', and E/e') together to reflect the physiology of LV relaxation, stiffness, and LA pressure—not any single parameter alone.

• Student13 Sept 2026, 00:36

  In the lesson on LV measurements I understand that it is important to consider some factors before concluding on an echo finding. Especially considering BSA for the conclusion of left ventricular mass.

• Student12 Sept 2026, 20:15

  Hello Prof I would like to send my sincere thanks to you and your team for a very good lecture both week one and two. In week two i have learned that the red color represents blood flow towards transducer and the blue color represents the blood flow away from transducer during color doppler application this elaboration will help me during hands on training. I also learned about normal variants like heavy trabeculation in RV, Lipomatous hypertrophy, Moderator band and Chiari network. Not only normal variants but also i have learned assessment of LV systolic function by using M Mode and 2D Dimension. Laminar and Turbulent blood flow are among of the lesson i have learned so far turbulent blood flow means there is defect like stenosis or regurgitation this will help me during perfuming Echocardiography Thanks in advance

• Student12 Sept 2026, 17:25

  In this week 2 I learn alot of things but most impressive is that how the LV it play the grea role of works as a pump generating pressure and ejecting a volume of blood • LV performance is a result of cardiac contractility (inotropic state) as well as 2 independent loading This is one of things interesting to me to know it

• Student12 Sept 2026, 05:04

  Good morning, Professor. Looking back on this week, I realise I no longer see an echocardiogram the way I did in week 1. The most useful lesson for me was learning to pause before calling something abnormal; normal variants like the Eustachian valve or crista terminalis appear in up to 1–3% of studies, and recognising them takes patience, experience, and knowledge. I also found myself thinking differently about measurements: it's not just about getting an EF as the number, but about doing it the right way, tracing the endocardium carefully for Simpson's, keeping the M-mode cursor perpendicular to the septum. When I learned to score the 16 segments and compute the Wall Motion Score Index, it suddenly connected the image to the coronary anatomy in a way that showed me that knowing coronary anatomy is also crucial to making a diagnosis. What I hope to carry into the hands-on sessions is to optimise the image first, measure systematically, and confirm every finding in more than one window and even with different transducers before committing to a diagnosis, to avoid misdiagnosis and confusion. Also, I will build a consistent scanning routine that, for every study: first a qualitative sweep looking for normal variants (Eustachian valve, crista terminalis, lipomatous septum) before I label anything abnormal; then chamber measurements using the correct method for the question; then global function (biplane Simpson's for LV, TAPSE + tissue Doppler for RV, etc.); and a segment-by-segment wall motion assessment with the WMSI calculation. I think an accurate echo comes less from memorising numbers and more from the discipline, experience and knowledge we bring to each study, stating the method used alongside the value, so that the number always carries its context.

• Student9 Sept 2026, 19:27

  Greatings, Thank You Prof for the updates and for quiz 1, at first, was getting difficult to log in but later on , with the help of my fellow I was able to log in and complete the week 1 quiz. I also appreciate the organization of the materils, and the feedbacks given in this forum, I enjoyed all the sessions including the anatomy of the heart and the blood vessels which added some more knowledge on top of the tradditional heart anatomy that I've ever come across before this session. The best echocardiographic view doesnot depend only on the sonographer experience but also on adhering to all the basic echocardiographic principles (incl. good preparation of both, the machine and the patient, and all manouvres done during Echocardiography). Now heading to wk 2. Thank you,

• Student9 Sept 2026, 19:12

  Hello prof.i have joined late , but i saw the materials are very clear and understandable though i have missed previous sessions

• Student9 Sept 2026, 14:32

  Dear Prof/Dr and fellow students of the Basic echocardiography short course, Good evening! I would like to share what I learned during the first week of ( Basic short course of the Echocardiography). I learned about the anatomy of the heart and large blood vessels, as well as how the assessment of the heart's condition depends on the Echocardiographic windows, views, and Patient poisoning. I also learned about proper care and handling of the Echocardiography machine, starting with ourselves as users. We should to follow the recommended guidelines and procedures, such as PPM.

• Student9 Sept 2026, 05:03

  Hello Professor, I'm delighted to join this course, before commencing this ECHO course, i didn't have a clear clarity on the ECHO reflectivity, and good positioning technique and windows, which entirely helps in obtaining good ECHO images. By now so far, I'm happy about the lecturers given, they are very clear, easy to learn and well organised slides. I would like to comment on the ECHO window lecture by Prof Chillo; As it is important to position the patient well as to acquire a good image. For instance in PLAX WINDOW, a patient has to lie on his/her left decubitus to get a good image than when in supine, as this helps to attain the echo image well by not tilting more posterior, on display images may appear with for shortening, we can get more of the apex than a true image with RV, IVS, LV and posterior wall of the LV well displayed. Thank you.

• Student9 Sept 2026, 03:54

  Greetings, I would like to appreciate the sessions of week one; they are really eye-opening to ECHO, starting from the anatomy of the heart to ECHO windows, ECHO views,patient position nanf sonographer position, caring for the machine, and the manoeuvres we do to get a good image. I am eager to learn more in week two.

• Student8 Sept 2026, 17:51

  Hello Professor, the most important step in obtaining a good echocardiographic image is to understand the anatomy of the heart and its structures. Knowing different windows also helps determine what to look for. This has really changed my mind indeed! ECHO windows, view,& positioning: from positioning the client to obtain proper views helps a lot on better images, different techniques to perform on different views needs skilled personnel and much practices on it which needs the anatomy beforehand. On how to take care of the machine its important for its longer use, i have learnt a lot. Thank you a lot for simplified lectures, and well understood.

• Professor Pilly ChilloProfessor8 Sept 2026, 12:04

  Hello Salum, I have asked Dorice to do that. I will give her all your contacts. She will reach out to you all.

• Student8 Sept 2026, 11:37

  Hello Professor, it would be helpful if we could get the link to join the students’ whatsp group so that we can share the Textbook of Echocardiography with everyone as u said during session

• Student8 Sept 2026, 09:57

  I failed to join the session because I dont see the link

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