Which echocardiographic feature suggests thrombus presence in congestive cardiomyopathy?

Study for the CCI Echocardiography Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The presence of a "B-notch" on mitral valve (MV) M-Mode is indicative of potential thrombus presence in the context of congestive cardiomyopathy. The "B-notch" refers to a secondary notch observed on the M-Mode tracing of the mitral valve during diastole, which can suggest impaired left ventricular (LV) filling and elevated left atrial pressures, often associated with heart failure. In cases of congestive cardiomyopathy, the left atrium can become enlarged due to increased pressures and volumes, creating an environment conducive to thrombus formation.

In contrast, mitral regurgitation may be present in various cardiac conditions and does not specifically indicate thrombus formation. Enhanced LV contractility could suggest improved heart function, but it is not a direct indicator of thrombus. Diminished chamber volume typically relates to restrictive physiology rather than suggesting thrombus presence and may even relate to hyperdynamic states or reduced filling conditions. Thus, the B-notch provides a key echocardiographic feature that correlates with increased risk of thrombus formation due to the underlying hemodynamic changes associated with congestive cardiomyopathy.

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