Parasternal Long Axis

The next view should be a parasternal long axis (PLAX) view. Ideally this requires a phased array transducer. To obtain the PLAX view the dot on the transducer points along the axis of the heart, which is towards the patients right shoulder. In actual fact, the axis is probably more towards the right mid-clavicular line. The transducer is placed tight against the sternum in either the third of fourth intercostal space (try both). The image produced is a slice through the left ventricle, from apex to base (the valve annulus region). At the base the image plane intersects the mitral and aortic valves as well as the left atrium and aorta.