Correct Anatomical Orientation of the Heart and Reflections on the Nomenclature Used in Daily Practice

Closing remarks

This study does not intend to exhaust the subject nor recommend an immediate change in the current nomenclature. It aims to acknowledge and educate the reader about the frequent use of terms that are not completely adequate in describing the cardiac morphology evaluated with different imaging techniques. The nomenclature based on the correct anatomical orientation significantly facilitates the spatial location of the cardiac structures and the relationship of the heart with the other organs. It also allows the exchange and comparison of information between different imaging techniques and guides diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, e.g., in electrophysiology or multimodal examination.

However, the adoption of changes in nomenclature already established by usage will require increased user awareness and recognition of the need for change and efforts towards the implementation and acceptance of these changes.

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