Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound

Abstract

Screening for vasospasm by multiple transcranial Doppler ultrasound examinations is a well-established protocol in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Ultrasound examinations are non-invasive, portable, cost-effective and repeatable without the risk of ionizing radiation or intravenous contrast-related nephrotoxicity. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound may also be useful in evaluating other clinical situations such as acute ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, sickle cell disease and cerebral vascular stenosis. In this chapter we will discuss the basic principles of Doppler ultrasound, discuss types of transcranial Doppler equipment available, protocols and techniques for performing transcranial Doppler imaging.