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Doppler waveform
Ultrasound-generated graphical representation of blood flow velocity patterns used to assess vascular patency.
Full Definition
A Doppler waveform is the visual display of blood flow velocity and direction over time, generated by Doppler ultrasound technology. In vascular medicine, waveform analysis provides crucial information about vessel patency, stenosis severity, and hemodynamic status. Normal arterial waveforms show triphasic patterns in healthy vessels, while dampened or monophasic patterns suggest proximal stenosis or occlusion. Venous waveforms should demonstrate respiratory variation and augmentation with distal compression in normal circumstances.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether describing arterial or venous waveforms for clarity.
In Context
- "The Doppler waveform showed monophasic flow suggesting proximal arterial disease." — Ultrasound report
- "Normal triphasic Doppler waveforms were documented in all tibial vessels." — Vascular laboratory study
Also known as
flow waveform
velocity waveform
Don't confuse with
pulse waveform
pressure waveform