We are delighted to host the 13th APCDE in Brisbane in May 2009. Our goal is quite simple – to make this the best echo meeting you’ve ever attended, based on the scientific content and the interactive workshops you can participate in.

The theme of the meeting is “Crossing the Chasm” – bridging the gap between the evidence gathered about the new technologies and their clinical application. We believe that the new technologies – myocardial imaging, contrast, 3D and handheld machines – have made echocardiography even more able to facilitate clinical decision making and allowed echo to remain competitive with other imaging modalities. The main objective of the scientific program is to feature topics where new developments are helping echo to address problems in the diagnosis, management and treatment of cardiovascular disease.  The Scientific Program will give a choice of symposia, debates, workshops and abstracts in over 50 sessions arranged in 6 concurrent streams;

• Echo applications - including debates about controversial topics
• Clinical decision-making - focused on integration of echo in practice
• Focus on early disease - tissue characterization
• PC-based workshops - a hands-on approach to learning new technology
• Case-based teaching - an audience response session led by experts
• An abstract program including Young Investigators’ Award session.

Abstracts will be published in a supplement to a cited journal. Abstract submission will be online, will open in November and will close on Australia Day (26th January 2009). Successful submitters are expected to present. We only want your best work – there is a maximum of two abstracts per submitter. If eligible, be sure to apply for consideration for the Young Investigators’ Award.

Whatever your interest, rest assured that we will select the best presenters from Australasia, Asia and further afield – not just the brightest researchers but the best communicators.

Brisbane shines in autumn! Come and enjoy the sunshine – take some extra days to enjoy our beautiful city and celebrate with us the future of echocardiography.