VT Non-Invasive Testing Procedures 3

Question 1

Which duplex ultrasound finding is characteristic of vertebral artery steal syndrome (subclavian steal)?

Accepted Answer

Complete reversal of flow direction in the ipsilateral vertebral artery

Answer

Subclavian steal causes complete flow reversal in the ipsilateral vertebral artery as it supplies the arm via retrograde flow.

Question 2

In segmental pressure testing of the lower extremity, a pressure gradient of 30 mmHg between adjacent cuffs is considered:

Accepted Answer

Significant, suggesting stenosis at that level

Answer

A gradient ≥20–30 mmHg between adjacent cuff levels indicates hemodynamically significant disease at that segment.

Question 3

When performing a venous duplex exam of the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ), what maneuver is used to provoke reflux?

Accepted Answer

Valsalva maneuver or manual calf compression with release

Answer

Valsalva maneuver or manual compression-release augments venous flow and unmasks reflux at the SFJ when reversed flow exceeds 0.5 seconds.

Question 4

Which finding on transcranial Doppler (TCD) is MOST consistent with vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage?

Accepted Answer

MCA mean flow velocity > 120 cm/s with Lindegaard ratio > 3

Answer

MCA velocity >120 cm/s and Lindegaard ratio (MCA/ICA) >3 distinguish vasospasm from hyperemia.

Question 5

A non-compressible vessel with an ABI of 1.4 is MOST likely due to:

Accepted Answer

Medial arterial calcification (Mönckeberg sclerosis)

Answer

Medial calcification makes vessels incompressible, falsely elevating ABI >1.30; toe-brachial index (TBI) should be used instead.

(VT) Vascular Technician Certification Practice Test