CLINICAL CARDIOLOGY- PART 1

There have been many technological advances in evaluating cardiovascular disease—like its structure (imaging) or function (flows, pressures, resistance). These technological advances are expensive and potentially harmful (invasive/ radiation) and thus they need to be used appropriately. These technological advances have also highlighted the importance of clinical evaluation in choosing appropriate time and technology for refining the clinical diagnosis. They also confirmed the utility of clinical exam, as they provide cost-effective investigation.

In evaluation of heart and circulation, there is close association between anatomy, physiology, and clinical signs. The pillars of clinical examination rest on physical signs (in addition to history) and understanding the physiological basis