Multiple choice

Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an alternative way to perform an echocardiogram. Which of the following is false about TEE?

  1. TEE has a very high sensitivity for locating a blood clot inside the left atrium.

  2. TEE is of limited use for the structures at the back of the heart of adults, such as the left atrial appendage.

  3. TEE may require sedation or general anesthesia.

  4. TEE is very useful during many cardiac surgical procedures, like mitral valve repair.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

This is false. TEE gives a clearer image of structures that are difficult to view transthoracically because the heart rests directly upon the esophagus, leaving only millimeters that the ultrasound beam has to travel.

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