Echocardiography in current perspective.

Expensive cross-section echocardiographic recorders have been introduced only recently in a small number of medical centers in this country. More information is needed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of this technique for the diagnosis of various cardiac abnormalities. In contrast, M-mode echocardiography is an accepted and routine laboratory procedure. However, the clinician should be aware of the problems of technique and interpretation so that information obtained can be correctly utilized in relation to the clinical setting. The physician should assume a flexible attitude in this expanding field, and rigid dogmatic criteria should be avoided. Only in this way will echocardiography develop and be used to fullest advantage in clinical medicine.