Neuroangiology – Doppler, Duplex ultrasound
What is vascular ultrasound?
Vascular ultrasound, also known as Doppler/Duplex ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of blood vessels in the body. It measures the speed and direction of blood flow within the arteries and veins to identify any abnormalities, such as narrowing or blockages, that may be affecting blood flow.
How does the examination work?
The Doppler/Duplex ultrasound examination of the blood vessels supplying the brain is performed in a similar way to other ultrasound examinations. A gel is applied to the skin over the area being examined, which helps to transmit the sound waves. A handheld transducer, or probe, is then placed on the skin and moved over the area of interest. The transducer emits high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off the blood cells in the vessels and are detected by the probe. The sound waves are then converted into images and displayed on a monitor.
The images can be used to evaluate the flow of blood through the vessels, identify any narrowing or blockages, and determine the thickness and composition of the vessel walls. The examination is painless, non-invasive, and poses no risk to the body.
When is a Doppler/Duplex ultrasound performed?
Doppler/Duplex ultrasound is a commonly used diagnostic tool for evaluating vascular diseases.
It can be used to:
- Assess blood flow direction
- Detect vascular narrowing, which is important for identifying or ruling out stenosis (narrowing) of the arteries supplying the brain
- Evaluate changes in the vessel walls, such as calcifications
For example, it may be used to monitor the success of vascular surgical procedures to treat carotid artery stenosis.