Echocardiography Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real CVT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Echocardiography Techniques flashcards as text
When using the continuity equation to calculate aortic valve area, which measurement is NOT required?
Answer: Peak aortic jet velocity
The continuity equation uses LVOT area × LVOT VTI = AVA × AV VTI; the peak velocity alone is not required (the full VTI is used).
In stress echocardiography, a new wall motion abnormality induced during exercise is most consistent with which diagnosis?
Answer: Myocardial ischemia in the territory of the abnormal segment
New or worsening regional wall motion abnormality during stress indicates inducible ischemia in the corresponding coronary artery territory.
Which echocardiographic parameter best distinguishes constrictive pericarditis from restrictive cardiomyopathy using tissue Doppler imaging?
Answer: Septal e' velocity (preserved or elevated in constrictive pericarditis)
In constrictive pericarditis, the tethered pericardium constrains the lateral annulus, so septal e' is paradoxically preserved or elevated ('annulus reversus').
The suprasternal notch view in echocardiography is primarily used to evaluate which structure?
Answer: Aortic arch and descending aorta
The suprasternal notch provides visualization of the aortic arch, proximal descending aorta, and branch vessels.
Which finding on color flow Doppler best indicates severe mitral regurgitation?
Answer: Vena contracta width > 7 mm
A vena contracta width > 7 mm is consistent with severe mitral regurgitation per ACC/AHA guidelines.
During a transesophageal echocardiogram, advancing the probe from the mid-esophagus to the transgastric position primarily allows better visualization of which structure?
Answer: Left ventricular apex and basal segments
The transgastric position places the transducer behind the stomach, providing short-axis and long-axis views of the left ventricle including apical segments.
What is the significance of an E-point septal separation (EPSS) greater than 10 mm on M-mode echocardiography?
Answer: Reduced left ventricular systolic function (depressed EF)
EPSS > 10 mm indicates the mitral valve anterior leaflet does not open fully toward the septum, reflecting reduced LV systolic function and low stroke volume.