Which plane is commonly used to visualize the heart during echocardiography?

The parasternal long axis view is a fundamental plane used in echocardiography to visualize the heart. This particular view provides a comprehensive look at the left ventricle, left atrium, aortic root, and parts of the right ventricle. It is obtained by placing the transducer in the left third or fourth intercostal space next to the sternum and angling it toward the right shoulder. This orientation allows sonographers to assess the structure and motion of the heart valves and chambers effectively, facilitating the evaluation of cardiac function and any potential abnormalities.

In contrast, the other views mentioned do not primarily focus on the heart’s structure in the same detailed manner. The supine lateral view may provide some information but is not standardized for cardiac imaging like the parasternal long axis. The transverse abdominal view is utilized to assess abdominal organs and would not provide adequate cardiac visualization. An oblique frontal view might capture some aspects of cardiac anatomy but lacks the specificity and diagnostic value provided by the parasternal long axis view in standard echocardiographic practice.