What are the primary indications and limitations that distinguish transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) from transesophageal echocardiography (TEE)?

• A. TTE is noninvasive with broad LV/valve assessment but may have limited posterior structures; TEE offers higher-resolution images of posterior structures and the aorta but is semi-invasive and requires sedation, with esophageal risks.
• B. TEE imaging is limited to the left atrium.
• C. TTE provides higher-resolution posterior imaging.
• D. TEE is noninvasive and never requires sedation.

Answer: (A)