Curvilinear versus phased array transducer: using the obstetric ultrasound for focused cardiac ultrasound in laboring patients - a randomized controlled assessment
Primary result · Clinically useful examinationsResult — go to the resultDifference −4.3% 90% CI −11.9% to −3.3%Authors' conclusion
Anesthesiologists can effectively use curvilinear transducers for focused cardiac ultrasound in obstetric patients, although phased array transducers may be superior for measuring cardiac dimensions and function.
Study context
- Population
- Laboring patients scanned by anesthesiologists with limited echocardiography experienceparturients scanned
- Participants
- 70 patients
- Comparison
- Curvilinear vs phased array transducer for focused cardiac ultrasound
- Primary endpoint
- Percentage of patients with sufficient images (grade ≥ 3 on 1–5 scale) in at least two views
Methodological detailsnon-inferiority, randomised transducer order, blinded expert grading, Six anesthesiologists with limited echocardiography experience performed scans
- Non-inferiority
- Randomised transducer order
- Blinded expert grading
- Six anesthesiologists with limited echocardiography experience performed scans
Primary result
Clinically useful examinations
Difference
−4.3%
90% CI −11.9% to −3.3%
By group
Curvilinear vs Phased array
difference −4.3% (90% CI −11.9% to −3.3%)
As reported in the abstract
Secondary outcomes
Individual views
- Subcostal and apical views individually inconclusive
- IVC views inferior
Cardiac dimensions and systolic function
- Measurable less frequently on curvilinear images but concordant when measured
Original publication
Curvilinear versus phased array transducer: using the obstetric ultrasound for focused cardiac ultrasound in laboring patients - a randomized controlled assessment. Int J Obstet Anesth. Published 2 December 2025. doi:10.
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