spectral Doppler
Ultrasound technique that displays velocity information as a graph showing frequency shift over time.
Full Definition
Spectral Doppler ultrasound is a diagnostic technique that provides detailed analysis of blood flow by displaying velocity information as a spectral waveform graph, with time on the horizontal axis and frequency shift (velocity) on the vertical axis. This method allows for precise measurement of flow velocities, assessment of flow patterns, and detection of turbulence or abnormal flow characteristics. Spectral Doppler includes both pulsed-wave and continuous-wave techniques, each with specific applications in vascular imaging. The resulting spectral trace provides quantitative hemodynamic information essential for grading stenoses and assessing vascular pathology.
Usage
Usage note: Specify pulsed-wave vs continuous-wave technique when relevant.
In Context
- "Spectral Doppler evaluation of the carotid bifurcation revealed turbulent flow with spectral broadening." — Carotid ultrasound report
- "Pulsed-wave spectral Doppler was used to sample flow velocities in the middle cerebral artery." — Transcranial Doppler study