VT Non-Invasive Testing Procedures 5

Question 1

Which duplex finding is MOST consistent with chronic (vs. acute) deep vein thrombosis?

Accepted Answer

Hyperechoic, retracted thrombus with partial recanalization and collaterals

Answer

Chronic DVT is characterized by echogenic, organized thrombus, vein wall thickening, partial recanalization, and visible collateral vessels.

Question 2

A patient undergoing mesenteric artery duplex has a superior mesenteric artery (SMA) PSV of 310 cm/s. This suggests:

Accepted Answer

Hemodynamically significant SMA stenosis (≥70%)

Answer

SMA PSV >275 cm/s is the standard threshold for ≥70% stenosis in fasting mesenteric duplex.

Question 3

Which test is PREFERRED to evaluate microcirculatory function and healing potential in a patient with a non-healing foot ulcer?

Accepted Answer

Transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2)

Answer

TcPO2 directly measures tissue oxygenation; values >40 mmHg predict healing, while <20 mmHg suggest poor healing potential.

Question 4

During a carotid duplex exam, the ICA cannot be differentiated from the ECA by anatomy alone. Which maneuver helps identify the ECA?

Accepted Answer

Temporal artery tapping producing oscillations in the waveform

Answer

Tapping the ipsilateral temporal artery transmits oscillations into the ECA waveform but not the ICA, distinguishing the two vessels.

Question 5

What is the PRIMARY reason continuous wave (CW) Doppler is used instead of duplex in ABI measurement?

Accepted Answer

CW Doppler is not depth-selective and detects the highest-velocity signal from any depth

Answer

CW Doppler has no range gate, sampling all signals along the beam path, making it reliable for detecting audible flow from poorly localized vessels.

(VT) Vascular Technician Certification Practice Test