Applications of Transcranial Color-Coded Sonography in the Emergency Department

J Ultrasound Med. 2017 Jun;36(6):1251-1266. doi: 10.7863/ultra.16.04050. Epub 2017 Feb 27.

Abstract

Transcranial color-coded Doppler sonography is a noninvasive bedside ultrasound application that combines both imaging of parenchymal structures and Doppler assessment of intracranial vessels. It may aid in rapid diagnoses and treatment decision making of patients with intracranial emergencies in point-of-care settings. This pictorial essay illustrates the technical aspects and emergency department applications of transcranial color-coded Doppler sonography, and provides some rationale for implementation of this technique into the emergency department practice.

Keywords: emergency; head injury; stroke; subarachnoid hemorrhage; transcranial Doppler; ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Emergency Medical Services / methods*
  • Emergency Service, Hospital / organization & administration*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color / methods*
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler, Transcranial / methods*