Korean Journal of Clinical Laboratory Science (Sep 2024)
Manual of Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography
Abstract
Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound is a crucial non-invasive tool for assessing cerebral blood flow and is widely used to diagnose and monitor cerebrovascular diseases. This paper reaffirms the importance of TCD, details examination methods and precautions, and provides a guide for practitioners. TCD evaluates the blood flow velocity to assess stenosis, occlusion, and hemodynamic changes. Distinguishing between increased blood flow volume and decreased vessel diameter based solely on velocity is challenging, necessitating a comprehensive approach to integrating clinical findings and hemodynamic changes. The reliability of TCD results depends on the skill of the examiner and requires standardized procedures and continuous training. Advances in automation and artificial intelligence promise enhanced accuracy and reliability. Future research should focus on validating and clinically applying these technologies. This paper is a review of the clinical significance of TCD, methods, and precautions, offering a valuable guide for practitioners and highlighting the potential benefits of ongoing advancements in TCD for the diagnosis and treatment of cerebrovascular diseases.
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