From Traditional to Cutting-Edge: Transforming Pulmonary Valve Assessment With Advanced Echocardiography Techniques

Abstract

The pulmonary valve (PV), although often less emphasized than other heart valves, is crucial for cardiac function and hemodynamics. Historically, the PV has been underrepresented in echocardiographic assessments due to its rare involvement in pathological conditions, particularly in adults. Additionally, the anatomical position of the PV makes it one of the most challenging valves to visualize using conventional echocardiography. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) techniques, while foundational, have limitations in capturing the full spectrum of valve pathology and dynamics. Recent advancements in echocardiography, especially the integration of three-dimensional (3D) imaging, have significantly enhanced the assessment of PV disorders. 3D echocardiography (3DE) offers superior accuracy in visualizing valve morphology and function, overcoming the limitations of angle dependency and suboptimal imaging planes typical of 2D assessments. This evolution in imaging techniques facilitates more precise diagnoses and improved management of conditions such as pulmonary stenosis (PS) and regurgitation (PR). This review explores the transition from conventional echocardiographic methods to advanced approaches that are reshaping our understanding of the PV, emphasizing the importance of incorporating these cutting-edge techniques into routine clinical practice to enhance patient outcomes.