Transcranial Doppler Series Part V: Specialty Applications

Abstract

ABSTRACT. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) is well known for its usefulness in diagnosing vasospasm in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and vasculopathy in children with sickle cell disease. However, there are some lesser known TCD studies. Bubble studies detect right to left shunts. Head rotation studies evaluate for extrinsic compression of the vertebral arteries. CO2 challenge and breath holding studies evaluate vasomotor reserve. Reactive hyperemia studies help diagnose subclavian steal. Emboli monitoring detects any particulates that might be present in the cerebral blood flow.