MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

CARDIOLOGY

VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECT

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Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]

For people older than middle age or with a history of CVD, aucultation of the carotid artery may demonstrate the presence of a swishing sound, indicating blood flow tubulence. What is this called?

A	murmur
B	bruit
C	thrill
D	heave

Explanation:

Detailed explanation-1: -Unobstructed blood flow is silent, whereas partial obstruction of blood flow (due to carotid stenosis ) creates turbulent blood flow, leading to vascular sounds. These sounds are called bruits: blowing/swooshing noises.

Detailed explanation-2: -Use palpation to assess the carotid artery. The carotid artery is located on each side of the neck lateral to the trachea. The patient should be at a 45-degree angle. Use the fingertips to palpate the carotid artery.

Detailed explanation-3: -Auscultation is now performed for all four valves of the heart in the following areas: Mitral valve – where the apex beat was felt. Tricuspid valve – on the left edge of the sternum in the 4th intercostal space. Pulmonary valve – on the left edge of the sternum in the 2nd intercostal space.

Detailed explanation-4: -Systolic murmurs may also emanate from a dilated aortic or pulmonary trunk. Most commonly, this occurs in association with hypertension in the respective vascular circuit. The murmur is similar in character to that of aortic sclerosis or mild pulmonic stenosis.

There is 1 question to complete.