Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) involves inserting a probe into the esophagus to obtain detailed images of the heart and surrounding structures. This procedure carries certain risks and potential complications that are important to recognize.

One of the main complications of TEE is esophageal perforation, which can occur due to the placement of the probe. This is a serious condition where a hole is made in the esophagus, potentially leading to leakage of gastrointestinal contents into the mediastinum or pleural space, resulting in severe complications. Additionally, transient hypoxia is a potential complication, as the sedation used during the procedure may affect the patient’s respiratory drive, leading to temporary low oxygen levels in the blood.

In contrast, while cardiac arrest and heart failure can occur as serious events during cardiology procedures, they are not specifically tied to the mechanics or risks of TEE. Similarly, ventricular tachycardia and bradycardia can occur in the context of other cardiovascular interventions but are less directly related to the specific risks of TEE. Hemorrhage and cardiac tamponade are more associated with invasive procedures but are not common outcomes of TEE itself.

Thus, the identification of esophageal perforation and transient hypoxia as potential complications is pertinent to the