Final answer:
McConnell's sign is an echocardiographic finding of preserved apical contractility with abnormal motion of the rest of the right ventricle, which suggests acute right ventricular dysfunction, often due to pulmonary embolism.
Step-by-step explanation:
McConnell's sign refers to a specific finding on an echocardiogram indicative of acute right ventricular dysfunction, often seen in the context of a pulmonary embolism. It is characterized by the preservation of normal contractile function in the apex (1) of the right ventricle while the remaining parts of the right ventricle demonstrate hypokinesia or akinesia (2). This sign is considered a reliable echocardiographic feature suggesting the presence of a pulmonary embolism, a serious condition where a blood clot blocks one or more arteries in the lungs.
The significance of identifying McConnell's sign lies in its diagnostic utility, especially in patients who present with signs and symptoms suspicious for pulmonary embolism. Timely identification and treatment are critical to manage the risks associated with this condition. Echocardiography is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that allows clinicians to visualize the heart and assess its function in real-time.