Clinical examination – CVS Part II

Clinical examination – CVS Part II

Part II of this series covers inspection, palpation and percussion of the precordium. Sternal deformities, surgical scars, dilated veins and arteries and the apex beat are important findings to look for during inspection. Apex beat (rarely double and triple apical impulse), left parasternal heave and pulsations, right parasternal pulsations, Suzman’s sign and thrills are the important findings on palpation. Percussion has limited role currently. Dullness beyond the apex beat, right heart border within the right sternal edge and dullness of second left intercostal space are sought.