Ultrasound techniques in space medicine.

Ultrasound examinations have been performed on 15 cosmonauts who have remained in orbit for flights ranging from 2.5 to 8 months in duration. Soviet researchers have combined hemodynamic assessments with parallel attempts to develop improved ultrasound techniques and equipment for use onboard space stations. These techniques and equipment are reviewed, as are findings relative to exercise effects on hemodynamic changes. In general, longitudinal echocardiographic studies have suggested that 1) few differences exist between resting preflight and on-orbit cardiac contractility measures; 2) declines in orthostatic stability after long-term flights are not due to deterioration of the myocardial functional state; and 3) lower stroke volumes and heart rate increases occurring during exertion may be considered compensatory hemodynamic resettings rather than indications of disturbed left ventricular contractility.