3.1 Introduction

The heart is an incredibly efficient pump. Although the normal heart weighs a mere 300 to 350 grams, it is capable of pumping 20 to 25 liters of blood per minute (during exercise). This is rendered possible by its sophisticated anatomy and physiology. Specifically, the efficiency of the heart may be attributed to the unique manner in which the chambers work together. Many pathologies of the heart alter the chambers and walls in one way or the other. Echocardiography is very sensitive in detecting such abnormalities and providing valuable information. It enables the investigator to determine the hemodynamic sequelae of a lesion, the grade or severity of a disease, and obtain prognostic information. In this chapter you will learn about the appearance of normal chambers and how to determine their size and function. You will also find out how various conditions affect the chambers and walls of the heart.