Doppler Transcranial Sonography (DTS) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique used to measure and assess blood flow in the arteries and veins located within the brain. It combines the principles of traditional ultrasound technology with the Doppler effect to detect and evaluate blood flow patterns and velocities in these cerebral vessels.
In DTS, a specialized ultrasound machine is used to emit high-frequency sound waves or ultrasound pulses into the skull. These sound waves then bounce off the moving blood cells within the brain vessels and create echoes, which are received by the same device. By analyzing the frequency shift of these echoes, caused by the Doppler effect, DTS can provide valuable information on the direction, speed, and volume of blood flow in specific brain regions.
Doppler Transcranial Sonography is commonly employed in the assessment of various cerebrovascular disorders, such as stroke, brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, and intracranial stenosis. It is particularly useful in monitoring and diagnosing conditions that may cause abnormal blood flow, such as occlusions or narrowing of vessels, emboli, or clot formation.
This technique is safe, radiation-free, and can be performed at the bedside. It offers real-time information about cerebral blood flow and allows healthcare professionals to make prompt and accurate decisions regarding patient care. Doppler Transcranial Sonography is considered a valuable tool in neurology and neurosurgery as it aids in the early detection, management, and monitoring of various neurological conditions.
