NBE Transesophageal Echocardiography 2

Question 1

Which TEE view best demonstrates the left atrial appendage (LAA) for thrombus detection?

Accepted Answer

Midesophageal two-chamber view

Answer

The midesophageal two-chamber view at 90° provides the best visualization of the LAA for thrombus detection.

Question 2

During TEE, spontaneous echo contrast ('smoke') in the left atrium is associated with:

Accepted Answer

Low flow states and increased thromboembolic risk

Answer

Spontaneous echo contrast reflects erythrocyte aggregation under low-shear flow conditions, indicating increased stasis and thromboembolic risk.

Question 3

What is the normal emptying velocity of the left atrial appendage on pulsed-wave Doppler during TEE?

Accepted Answer

Greater than 40 cm/s

Answer

Normal LAA emptying velocity is greater than 40 cm/s; values below 20 cm/s indicate significant stasis.

Question 4

In TEE, the coronary sinus is best visualized in which view?

Accepted Answer

Midesophageal four-chamber view

Answer

The coronary sinus appears as a circular structure at the posterior atrioventricular groove in the midesophageal four-chamber view.

Question 5

Which artifact is most commonly encountered when imaging the ascending aorta with TEE due to the interposition of the trachea?

Accepted Answer

Blind spot artifact

Answer

The trachea and left main bronchus create a 'blind spot' in the ascending aorta, limiting TEE visualization of this segment.

(NBE) National Board of Echocardiography Practice Test