USE OF TRANSCRANIAL DOPPLER SONOGRAPHY TO EVALUATE PATIENTS WITH CEREBROVASCULAR-DISEASE

Transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) is a noninvasive technique that allows the examiner to assess blood flow velocity through the basal ce rebral arteries. This article introduces the reader to some of the bas ics of TCD technology, technique, and interpretation. This introductio n is followed by a summary of the many clinical applications for the e valuation of cerebrovascular disease including bur not limited to vaso spasm, atherosclerosis, and arteriovenous malformations. Lastly, some investigational applications including emboli detection, and intraoper ative use are discussed.