A client is scheduled for a transesophageal echocardiogram. The client asks why it is necessary to do this test instead of a regular, noninvasive echocardiogram. The nurse explains to the client that this test will assist in the diagnosis of:

Question

1. Aortic abnormalities.
2. Myocardial infarction.
3. Pulmonary embolism.
4. Coronary artery disease.

Answer 1

Aortic abnormalities.

Rationale: During TEE, the miniaturized transducer is advanced down the esophagus. Because the esophagus passes directly behind the posterior surface of the heart, it affords excellent views of the posterior structures of the heart and great vessels. TEE is frequently used to detect and assess endocarditis, aortic dissection, intracardiac masses such as thrombi or tumors, valvular pathology, and congenital disorders in both children and adults. TEE is not used to diagnose myocardial infarctions, pulmonary embolism, or coronary artery disease.