Doppler echocardiography: The noninvasive method for accurately estimating stroke volume in ischaemic cardiogenic shock

Abstract

Accurate stroke volume (SV) assessment is crucial in ischaemic cardiogenic shock. While pulmonary artery catheterisation remains the gold standard, its invasive nature necessitates reliable noninvasive alternatives. However, the literature on echocardiographic SV accuracy is inconsistent. This study evaluated commonly used echocardiographic techniques-Doppler-derived and Simpson's method-against invasive thermodilution in 39 patients. SV by Doppler showed strong correlation (r = 0.91, p < 0.0001) and minimal bias, whereas the Simpson's method exhibited weaker correlation and more significant underestimation. These findings suggest Doppler echocardiography as the more accurate noninvasive tool for SV estimation, addressing prior discrepancies and enhancing haemodynamic management in critical care. Copyright © The Intensive Care Society 2025