Question

Which of the following ultrasound techniques gives the best Ultrasound Image of the heart?

(a) 2D phased array

(b) Linear phased array

(c) Transesophageal

(d) Curvilinear array

The question was posed to me at a job interview.

My query is from Echocardiography topic in section Diagnostic Investigation via Imaging Techniques of Clinical Science

Answer 1

Right option is (c) Transesophageal

Explanation: This type of ultrasound is taken by inserting an endoscope with the transducer down the esophagus. The endoscope gets an unobstructed view of the heart through the esophagus and the ultrasound of the heart can be taken.  It is difficult to take the ultrasound of the heart due to the ribs blocking the beams. To take the ultrasound through the chest, the acoustic window is too small and only specific angles can be taken. Transesophagal method is an invasive method to take the ultrasound of the heart.