Speckle Tracking Echocardiography is an advanced imaging technique that quantifies myocardial deformation by tracking natural acoustic markers, or “speckles”, within the ultrasound image. By providing detailed measures of strain, strain rate and mechanical synchrony, it offers sensitive detection of subclinical dysfunction long before conventional ejection fraction changes occur. Many clinicians seek focused teaching on Speckle Tracking Echocardiography when selecting imaging tracks at a cardiology conference that emphasises quantitative assessment and early detection of disease. Because this tool plays a growing role in cardio-oncology, valvular heart disease, cardiomyopathies and heart failure, it has become a cornerstone of modern myocardial strain imaging practice.

The session begins with core principles of speckle tracking, explaining how software algorithms analyse frame-by-frame motion of speckles to calculate longitudinal, circumferential and radial strain. Participants learn how image quality, frame rate, region-of-interest selection and vendor-specific software differences influence accuracy and reproducibility. Standard views for left-ventricular and atrial strain are reviewed, along with strategies for minimising common technical pitfalls.

Clinical applications form the heart of the programme. In cardio-oncology, speckle tracking allows early identification of chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity by revealing reductions in global longitudinal strain before declines in ejection fraction arise. In valvular disease, strain patterns help differentiate compensated hypertrophy from early decompensation and guide timing of intervention. For cardiomyopathies, specific deformation signatures support diagnosis of conditions such as amyloidosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy, while also offering prognostic information.

Heart failure management benefits greatly from strain analysis. The session explores how global and regional strain can refine risk stratification, predict outcomes and monitor response to therapy. Participants also discuss the role of strain in assessing dyssynchrony and predicting response to cardiac resynchronisation therapy. Right-ventricular and atrial strain assessment is addressed, providing a more comprehensive view of chamber interaction and pulmonary vascular impact.

Standardisation efforts and guideline recommendations are highlighted, including the importance of consistent acquisition, use of the same vendor for serial follow-up and awareness of normal reference values. Limitations—such as vendor variability, technical dependence and challenges in poor image quality—are discussed honestly so that clinicians can interpret results responsibly.

Future directions include three-dimensional strain imaging, machine-learning–augmented analysis, automated workflow integration and expanded use in population screening and athletic heart assessment. Practical case examples will illustrate how strain findings change management decisions, such as intensifying cardioprotective therapy, recommending earlier valve intervention or adjusting training loads in competitive athletes. The session reinforces that speckle tracking is not merely a research tool, but a clinically actionable technique that can upgrade the quality and nuance of everyday echocardiographic reporting. Attendees will see how strain metrics complement traditional parameters rather than replace them, adding depth to existing interpretations while keeping reports clear and clinically relevant.