This session was a special joint session between the EACVI and the AAE (Asia-Pacific Association of Echocardiography) chaired by Drs. Habib and Song. Although it was an early morning session, it was well attended by an enthusiastic audience and proceeded smoothly.
Dr. Watanabe representing the AAE showed how 3D echocardiography can be used to appreciate the geometric changes of the mitral apparatus in various clinical conditions of mitral regurgitation (MR). Her data showing that the patterns of mitral valve tethering in patients with functional/ischemic MR might have prognostic implications, was quite interesting, but needs further validation.
Dr. Delgado excellently reviewed the imaging roadmap in the clinical evaluation of MR with a comprehensive review of the current guideline and presentation of interesting cases.
Through the lectures, the audience could easily understand what should be included for a complete evaluation of MR, and what additional information we can obtain using multiple imaging modalities.
The addition of the topic of mitral stenosis seemed to be appropriate, considering the relatively high prevalence of rheumatic fever in the AAE region. Dr Song presented some tricky clinical cases on mitral stenosis, then providing the technical tips necessary to solve them. Finally, an eminent cardiac surgeon, Dr. Alfieri, reviewed the current guidelines for valvular heart disease. Strong messages based on his tremendous clinical experience were well accepted by the audience.
In conclusion, this session was one typical example of an excellent educational program, representing a big initial step for mutual collaboration between the two societies.
Our mission: To reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease.