Normative and pathological values of hemodynamic and Doppler ultrasound arterial findings in children

Vasa. 2020 Jun;49(4):264-274. doi: 10.1024/0301-1526/a000860. Epub 2020 Apr 23.

Abstract

Doppler ultrasound is an effective, useful and remarkably powerful tool in pediatric imaging. If possible, its use is always favored to avoid exposure to radiation or sedatives. By waveform spectrum analysis, Doppler ultrasound reveals information on blood flow and details on normal physiology and pathological processes undiscernible from gray-scale imaging alone. However, Doppler ultrasound remains underused, largely due to the difficult interpretation of changes in Doppler waveforms during childhood. This article provides a narrative review of the literature regarding the normative values and the physiological arterial changes through childhood according to age, weight or height, as well as frequent pathological arterial findings in children, classified by arterial territory.

Keywords: Pediatric; children; doppler measurements; hemodynamics; velocities.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiography
  • Arteries
  • Blood Flow Velocity
  • Child
  • Hemodynamics*
  • Humans
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler*