Don’t repeat echocardiograms in stable, asymptomatic patients with a murmur/click, where a previous exam revealed no significant pathology.

We upgraded AAFP.org security on Dec. 7.
Account holders must create a new password. Previous passwords will no longer work.

Rationale and Comments

Repeat imaging to address the same question, when no pathology has been previously found and there has been no clinical change in the patient’s condition, is not indicated.

Sponsoring Organizations

American Society of Echocardiography

Sources

ACC/AHA guidelines

Disciplines

Cardiovascular

References

Douglas PS, et al. ACCF/ASE/AHA/ASNC/HFSA/HRS/ SCAI/SCCM/SCCT/SCMR 2011 appropriate use criteria for echocardiography. J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 2011;24:229-67.