TCD
Also written as: TCD — Transcranial Doppler
Transcranial Doppler; ultrasound technique measuring blood flow velocities in cerebral arteries to detect vasospasm.
Full Definition
Transcranial Doppler (TCD) is a non-invasive ultrasound technique that measures blood flow velocities in the major intracranial arteries through the skull. In neurocritical care, TCD is primarily used to detect and monitor cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Elevated flow velocities and increased Lindegaard ratios suggest arterial narrowing. TCD can also assess cerebral autoregulation, detect microemboli, and monitor intracranial pressure indirectly. The technique is operator-dependent and requires specific expertise for interpretation. Documentation should include vessel-specific velocities, ratios, and clinical correlation with patient symptoms.
Usage
Usage note: Include specific velocity measurements and vessel locations for clinical relevance.
In Context
- "TCD velocities in the MCA increased to 180 cm/s, suggesting moderate vasospasm." — Monitoring report
- "Daily TCD monitoring was initiated to detect early vasospasm development." — Care plan