Question

Mitral valve (How to examine in TEE)

Answer 1

The mitral valve is critical to heart function and is attached via chordae tendineae to the papillary muscles, preventing backflow during ventricular contraction. TEE allows detailed examination of this valve.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mitral valve, or the left atrioventricular valve, is a two-cusp valve located between the left atrium and left ventricle. It is crucial for the functioning of the heart as it allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle and prevents its backflow during ventricular contraction. The chordae tendineae are fibrous cords that attach the cusps of the mitral valve to the papillary muscles on the walls of the ventricle. These structures are more critical for the atrioventricular valves (tricuspid and mitral) than for the semilunar (aortic and pulmonary) valves because they help to prevent the prolapse of these valves into the atria during ventricle contraction, which would lead to backflow of blood.

During a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE), the mitral valve can be examined in detailed views. This imaging technique involves inserting an ultrasound probe into the esophagus, which provides a close and clear view of the heart valves, including the mitral valve. TEE is particularly useful in assessing valve function, detecting abnormalities such as mitral valve prolapse, regurgitation, or stenosis, and obtaining measurements that guide clinical decisions and treatments.

Answer 2

To examine the mitral valve with Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE), insert the probe into the esophagus, manipulate it to obtain different views, and adjust the imaging plane. Utilize color and pulsed wave Doppler for comprehensive assessment of structure and function.

Step-by-step explanation:

Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) is a valuable tool for examining the mitral valve, offering detailed imaging from within the esophagus. To examine the mitral valve:

Probe Insertion: The TEE probe is inserted into the patient's esophagus, allowing for closer proximity to the heart structures.

Image Acquisition: The probe is manipulated to obtain different views, including the mid-esophageal and transgastric views.

Adjusting Imaging Plane: By adjusting the imaging plane, the mitral valve can be visualized in various orientations, facilitating a comprehensive assessment.

Color Doppler: Color Doppler imaging helps evaluate blood flow across the mitral valve, detecting any regurgitation or stenosis.

Pulsed Wave Doppler: Pulsed wave Doppler can be used to assess blood flow velocity through the mitral valve, aiding in the evaluation of diastolic function.

TEE provides high-resolution images, allowing clinicians to assess mitral valve structure, function, and potential abnormalities.