1. How is FATE performed?
In the FATE
protocol, imaging is performed with the patient in the
present position (you do not have to start by moving the
patient, as you often get the images you need in current
position). Therefore you may freely choose ”where to
start” – and simply go through scanning position 1-4 in
the most favourable sequence until you have achieved
sufficient information.
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2.
What does
FATE look for?
A thorough
evaluation of the hemodynamic determinants includes
assessment of both left and right ventricle, systolic
determinants (preload, afterload, contractility and
heart rate) and the diastolic determinants (compliance,
relaxation and heart rate). In addition, concomitant
pathology can also be detected, such as: pericardial
effusion, pulmonary embolism, pleural effusion, valve
disease, aortic dissection, septal defects, etc.
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3.
Is it
possible to perform TTE (TransThoracic Echo) in the ICU
patients?
Yes it is. Despite the common belief that TEE is
mandatory in ICU patients, recent studies show that
97-99% of patients have at least one usable acoustic
window according to the FATE protocol, being able to
extract the information needed. Even the presence of
subcostal drain does not seem to affect the image
quality in the subcostal scan (position 1).
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4.
How long
does it take to do a FATE examination?
A FATE examination lasts from a few seconds to a few
minutes depending on the condition of the patient. It is
important not to spend too much time on one single
window but quickly move forward to another position. The
image quality will very seldom be better because of
increased scanning time.
Within the FATE protocol you are allowed to stop the
scanning as soon as you have got the information you
need as a supplement to your clinical evaluation.
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5. Is FATE difficult to learn?
FATE is very easy to learn, and perfecting it is an
ongoing process, which can last a whole life.
It is important to remember, that FATE is not a full
echocardiographic examination like those performed by
the cardiologists. FATE should be considered as a
supplement to the clinical evaluation of the patient,
and if FATE is not performed, the
alternative is no imaging information at
all.
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6.
How long
will it take until I’m able to do FATE examinations on
my own?
Probably a lot less than you would think… In the FATE
certifying program that we have set up there are 3½
hours of theory, including one hour of hands-on scanning
on volunteers. The theoretical part also includes
clinical cases and video clips of the most common and
important pathological conditions. In addition to the
theoretical part, 10 supervised FATE examinations from
the daily clinical practice are needed. When this is
fulfilled a certificate is issued.
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7.
Why was
the FATE summary card produced?
The FATE card was produced in order to facilitate the
learning process of FATE. All essential contents of the
FATE concept is printed on the FATE card which can
easily be carried in the pocket. To be honest, people
love these cards.
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