Statement for Doppler waveforms analysis

Vasa. 2017 Aug;46(5):337-345. doi: 10.1024/0301-1526/a000638. Epub 2017 May 19.

Abstract

Peripheral artery disease of the lower limbs (PAD) is a common disease. Evaluation of PAD is primarily based on non-invasive examinations with analysis of the arterial Doppler signal being a key element. However, the description of arterial Doppler waveforms morphologies varies considerably across medical schools and from country to country. In order to overcome this issue, the French College of Teachers for Vascular Medicine (Collège des Enseignants de Médecine Vasculaire; CEMV) has summarised the published data on Doppler waveforms analysis and proposes a new "Saint-Bonnet" classification system to describe Doppler waveforms morphologies. The simplified Saint-Bonnet classification comprises eight types and allows taking into account if the Doppler signal does not revert to baseline. This classification, which is based on previous classifications, could improve the descriptions of both physiological and pathological waveforms, recorded in lower limb arteries. According to the reviewed literature, recommendations about the use of Doppler waveforms are proposed. This statement is a preamble to reach an international consensus on the subject, which would standardize the description of arterial waveforms and improve the management of PAD patients.

Keywords: Doppler; peripheral artery disease; ultrasound; waveforms.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arteries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Arteries / physiopathology
  • Blood Flow Velocity
  • Humans
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / standards*
  • Lower Extremity / blood supply*
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease / classification
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease / diagnostic imaging*
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease / physiopathology
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prognosis
  • Regional Blood Flow
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler / standards*