Dopplerography of the vessels of the brain and neck. What is Dopplerography (UZG)? Uzdg of vessels of the head and neck as a passage examination of Uzdg of vessels of the head and neck

Our clinic is equipped with high-precision equipment for conducting ultrasound examinations of blood vessels and arteries of the brain and neck using the Doppler method (USDG).

Diagnosis is carried out at a time convenient for patients by highly qualified doctors. Specialists will not only conduct examinations, but also advise on their results. In our clinic in Moscow You can do an ultrasound and Doppler ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck at reasonable prices.

Important! Depending on the indications or at the request of the visitor, comprehensive or separate examinations of veins and arteries are carried out.

With us you will receive qualified medical service at the time you choose. At your service are modern equipment, attentive medical staff, spacious, bright and comfortable waiting areas, equipped rooms. Doctors work at the medical center general practice and narrow specialists; if necessary, you can visit them to receive referrals and after examinations.

What is ultrasound of the vessels of the neck and head (USDG)

Ultrasound is a study performed using sound waves. The procedure is non-invasive, painless and safe, and does not take much time. To diagnose blood vessels, arteries and veins of the cervical spine, brain, and upper part of the spine, Doppler ultrasound (USDG) is performed. The method is based on the fact that blood moving through the vessels reflects waves with a changed frequency, which makes it possible to determine the speed of blood flow and draw a conclusion about the condition of the vessels.

This is the most available method research, which lasts no longer than 30 minutes, but at the same time allows you to identify the causes of complaints and ailments of the subject.

Types of ultrasound diagnostics

By using Ultrasound of the neck pathologies of the cervical vessels and arteries are detected on different stages. Ultrasound dopplerography of vessels located inside the skull is called transcranial (that is, intracranial) Dopplerography. This is a blood flow study. intracranial vessels, hidden by the bones of the skull.

Doppler ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries, main and extracranial neck vessels determines the condition of the vessels that participate in the blood supply to the brain, thyroid gland, muscles and tissues of the head and neck. These are the so-called peripheral vessels. As part of this survey, Ultrasound of sleepy, subclavian and vertebral arteries, as well as the arteries of the brachiocephalic trunk.

Development ultrasonic method made it possible to significantly expand the list of diseases diagnosed with its help. There are three types Dopplerography of the vessels of the neck and brain:

• simple Doppler ultrasound reveals vascular patency;
• duplex scanning- establishes the speed of blood flow and determines the structure of blood vessels, wall thickening, degree of bending, identifies blood clots, plaques;
• triplex scanning - combines the capabilities of the first two studies and shows the speed and intensity of blood flow in each vessel, and also evaluates the condition of the valves and the structure of the vessel walls.

Before the procedure, you should consult a therapist and a neurologist to specify the indications for ultrasound and, if necessary, stop taking certain medications.

What do ultrasound and ultrasound examinations show?

Based on the results of the study, the neurologist not only performs an analysis, but also identifies the presence of risks of neurological abnormalities in the near future, and therefore, carrying out planned studies, especially in the risk group, can prevent many diseases.

Using Doppler ultrasound, the following can be established:

• blood flow speed;
• patency and degree of vascular obstruction;
• the presence of plaques, blood clots;
• congenital and acquired vascular malformations.

If necessary, during the research process, for completeness and accuracy of diagnosis, it is recommended Ultrasound of veins: jugular and vertebral plexus.

Many dangerous diseases can be prevented through their timely detection. For example, ischemic stroke, which occurs as a result of limited oxygen supply to certain areas of the brain, leads to tissue dysfunction and damage. The cause of this disease is a decrease in blood supply due to narrowing or complete obstruction of the arteries.

Passed on time Ultrasound examination of the vessels of the neck and brain makes it possible to stop the development of this disease by initial stage without waiting for irreversible consequences.

During the analysis, complete or partial closure of blood vessels, stenoses (abnormal narrowing of tubular vessels) and pathological curvature are detected. Based on the condition of the blood vessels, one can judge the degree of circulatory obstruction and the extent of the disease, and calculate the risk of stroke.

In what cases is it necessary to undergo ultrasound and ultrasound examination of the vessels of the head and neck?

The vast majority of visitors come for ultrasound examinations on the recommendation of a doctor. Such a visit is not always timely. The first symptoms of many dangerous diseases vessels supplying the brain is most often ignored and contacting a specialist occurs with a serious delay.

Timely examination reduces the risk of developing serious illnesses, disability and death. Therefore, it is very important to do a comprehensive ultrasound examination of the vessels of the brain and neck if:

• sudden dizziness;
• ringing and extraneous noises in the ears;
• unsteadiness and uncertainty of gait;
• movement coordination disorders;
• migraines, headaches and heaviness in the head;
• periodic disturbances of vision, hearing, speech;
• decreased concentration;
• memory impairment, absent-mindedness, general weakness;
• fainting;
• weakness in the limbs;
• numbness and “goosebumps” in the hands, chilliness of the limbs;
• short-term blindness in one eye;
• sensation of flashing before the eyes;
• sudden falls without loss of consciousness;
• enlarged lymph nodes or changes in the external contours of the neck;
• discomfort, pain or crunching in the cervical area;
• sudden changes in weight;
• dry skin and hair loss;
• absence of pulse in the radial arteries;
• loss of taste or sensation in the limbs.

There is also a category of citizens at risk who must periodically, at least once a year, undergo Ultrasound of head and neck vessels: smokers; men over 40 and women over 45; aged people; faces with high sugar and cholesterol; those suffering from hypertension, heart disease, arrhythmia, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, those who have suffered a stroke, as well as preoperative and postoperative patients. It is necessary to be examined to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment various diseases head and neck.

Ultrasound examinations have no contraindications; they are so safe that they are prescribed to children and pregnant women.

How to prepare for ultrasound and ultrasound examination

Preparation for ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck requires on the day of the study, exclude vasodilating drinks from the diet: tea, coffee and coffee drinks, energy drinks and alcohol containing ginger, ginseng, etc.

! You must stop smoking two hours before diagnostic procedures..

Early diagnosis of cerebral vascular lesions occupies a central place in solving the problem of cerebrovascular diseases, which are leading in the modern structure of morbidity and causes of death. Practice shows that the safest and most reliable research cerebral circulation today is ultrasound Dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck (ultrasound Dopplerography) and its variety – transcranial Dopplerography (TCDG).

Doppler ultrasound of the neck and head vessels is a modern non-invasive method for diagnosing the blood supply to the brain. Based on the Doppler effect - reflection sound wave from a moving object.

The sensor of the ultrasound device sends ultrasonic signals through the skin of the person being examined and measures the speed of reflection of waves from blood elements moving in the vessels.

In the process of computer processing of the received information, a two-dimensional image of the blood vessel system of the studied area of ​​the body or organ is created, showing places where there are difficulties and problems in the blood flow.

The ultrasound doppler technique is a promising alternative to invasive studies - arteriography, angiography or venography, performed with injection into the blood contrast agents followed by radiography.

Ultrasound scanning of the vessels of the neck and head is used to assess the state of arterial and venous circulation of the spinal cord, brain and other intracranial organs.

Types of ultrasound examination of blood vessels

The often occurring terminological confusion between the types of ultrasound examination is explained by the technical capabilities of the equipment and diagnostic purposes.

Actually Doppler ultrasound of blood vessels is a measurement of the direction and speed of blood movement in vessels without visualizing the vessels themselves.

Duplex (double) scanning, using the capabilities of standard ultrasound, allows you to obtain images of blood vessels, assess the condition of the walls, confirm or exclude the presence of vascular abnormalities: blood clots, aneurysms or atherosclerotic plaques. Determination of blood flow parameters: the speed and direction of blood movement through the vessels is an integral part of a duplex study.

At triplex (triple) scanning vessels, the use of special computer programs makes it possible to expand visualization capabilities. By encoding information using color, the resulting image of blood vessels is colored depending on specified parameters (usually the direction and speed of blood flow).

Transcranial Dopplerography

It is known that bones are an insurmountable barrier to the passage of ultrasound. The fundamental difference technique invented in 1982 transcranial dopplerography (TCDG) is the possibility of non-invasive examination of intracranial arteries and veins.

When conducting transcranial Dopplerography of cerebral vessels, so-called acoustic “windows” are used - areas of the head where penetration of ultrasonic waves into the skull is possible.

Such places are:

1. orbits (eye sockets) - cavities where the eyeballs are located;
2. temporal areas;
3. articulation of the cervical spine and the occipital bone.

This diagnostic technique made a real splash in neurology, bringing the study of the vascular system of the brain to a new level.

The methods do not duplicate, but complement each other.

When studying the blood flow of the brain, ultrasound dopplerography (TCDG) is performed, and when studying the extracranial (extracranial) parts of the carotid and vertebral arteries - the study of the vessels of the neck - duplex scanning is used.

The main advantages of ultrasound scanning are:

• high information content, independent of the type and size of the vessels being studied (main and small);
• the ability to assess the compensatory capabilities of blood circulation in the area under study (the presence of collaterals - bypass paths of blood flow in the event of compression or thrombosis of the main vessel);
• painlessness and safety for patients (non-penetrating nature and lack of radiation exposure);
• the versatility of the technique, which makes it possible to use various states in patients of all ages.

In addition, a valuable advantage of USDG is the ability to assess hemodynamics in deep veins, identifying the cause of the disorder venous outflow from the cranial cavity in the early stages of the disease.

Who needs a brain ultrasound?

Doppler ultrasound is used as an auxiliary diagnostic method when symptoms are detected in patients:

1. a sharp decrease in visual acuity,
2. asymmetry or absence of pulse in the radial arteries,
3. low pressure in the arteries of the upper extremities;
4. the presence of noise above the aortic arch during auscultation (listening).

The study is indicated when the patient has subjective complaints about:
• numbness of hands;
• cases sudden loss consciousness;
• noise or ringing in the head;
• migraine-like episodes;
• memory impairment;
• dyssomnia (sleep disorders);
• dizziness;
• flashing “flies” before the eyes;
• psycho-emotional disorders;
• hearing impairment.

Indications for ultrasound of the head and neck

The main medical indications for ultrasound scanning are occlusion (blockage), stenosis (narrowing) or deformation of extracranial (extracranial) arteries (carotid and vertebral), as well as intracranial (intracranial) arteries (antero-, mid- and post-cerebral).

In clinical practice, ultrasound examination of the vessels of the neck and head is prescribed for:
• clarification of the degree of circulatory impairment after traumatic brain injury;
• identifying lesions of intracranial vessels at an early stage of insufficiency of blood supply to the brain;
• detection of cerebral vascular stenosis after neuroinfections (including influenza);
• clarification of the leading factor of vasospasm in migraine to select optimal therapy;
• diagnosis of cerebral (cerebral) circulation disorders in patients suffering from rheumatism and diabetes;
• clarifying the cause of the headache (vasospasm, increased intracranial pressure);
• assessment of hemodynamics in the brain of patients after organ transplantation;
• monitoring the state of cerebral circulation during surgical operations;
• identifying the cause of impaired blood supply to the brain in cervical osteochondrosis or;
• detection of microembolism (blockage) of cerebral vessels in patients with transient cerebral circulatory disorders.

In addition, ultrasound scanning of head and neck vessels is widely used with for preventive purposes to identify early cerebrovascular lesions in individuals at risk of developing atherosclerosis and other vascular pathologies of the brain (smokers, those suffering from hypertension, physical inactivity and obesity).

The technique makes it possible to prevent the development of cerebral strokes, as well as to evaluate the dynamics of the results of treatment of patients with pathology of cerebral vessels.

Screening ultrasound examination of the vessels of the neck and brain is indicated for persons:

1. after 45 years;
2. with heart rhythm disturbances;
3. c ischemic diseases hearts;
4. suffering from obliterating lesions of the arteries of the lower extremities;
5. for kidney diseases;
6. survivors of myocardial infarction;
7. with arterial hypertension.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications for Doppler ultrasound.

The examination is carried out at any age and condition of the patient. The procedure is non-invasive, absolutely painless, and has no consequences for the patient.

A relative contraindication to the study is the presence of a wound in the area where the sensor is installed. In addition, the procedure is difficult in case of pronounced subcutaneous fat layer, peculiarities of the location of the vessel (under the bone), as well as in patients with cardiac arrhythmias.

When is the examination performed on children?

The safety and high information content of the method makes its use optimal in pediatrics.

Doppler ultrasound of head and neck vessels is used in children early age to identify intrauterine anomalies in the development of cerebral vessels (malformations) arising as a result of disembryogenesis (impaired formation of the fetal vascular network). In addition, the study is prescribed to newborns to verify the diagnosis of perinatal encephalopathy.

In older children, indications for ultrasound examination of the brain include:

1. residual (residual) phenomena of perinatal encephalopathy;
2. suspicion of ;
3. delayed speech development;
4. psycho-emotional disinhibition;
5. inattention, bad memory;
6. asthenic syndrome (increased fatigue, lethargy).

Preparation and conduct of the research procedure

No special preparation is required for the ultrasound examination; the examination is performed with the patient in the supine position, with a low pillow placed under the head. Before the start of the ultrasound ultrasound session, the patient is asked to relax and breathe calmly.

The research is carried out according to uniform methodological principles. Before starting the examination procedure, the doctor palpates (feels) the carotid arteries: determines the depth of the vessel, its mobility, and the strength of the pulsation.

During ultrasound examination of blood flow, simple techniques to identify the main vessels and study the function of the external carotid arteries: press 8-10 branches of the external carotid arteries with a finger, perform a test with turns and tilts of the head to the right and left, forward and backward. Then the specialist studies the speed characteristics of blood flow through the vessels.

What does ultrasound scan show?

The ultrasound doppler technique provides the specialist with information for a complete and comprehensive assessment of the state of the blood supply to the brain based on data on:

• blood flow speed through the arteries supplying the brain;
• venous outflow from the cranial cavity;
• the degree of development of the collateral (reserve) network of brain vessels.

The technique allows you to identify tortuosity, bends or, as well as obtain data on the violation of vascular patency and its severity.

The results obtained are important for diagnosing possible vascular pathology and choosing effective therapy.

Decoding the results

The ultrasound and TCD examination protocol includes the following components:

1. introduction (definitive part), which indicates the type of study and lists the examined vessels;
2. the statement-factual part, where the actual results obtained are noted - digital indicators and their interpretation, reactions to samples and other data;
3. interpretation and diagnostic part, which sets out the main results of the study;
4. the recommendatory-final part, where the diagnosis of the main lesions is formulated and recommendations are given taking into account the characteristics of the patient.

Where to get tested

Ultrasound scanning of the vessels of the neck and head is performed in outpatient settings of medical institutions, diagnostic centers and clinics.

The study is carried out by a doctor who is certified as an ultrasound diagnostic specialist and has undergone special training in ultrasound and TCD.

Price

Cost of the “USDG of extracranial vessels” service:

• in medical centers in Moscow is in the range of 950 - 12,100 rubles. On average, the price of an ultrasound scan of the neck and head is 2800 rubles.
• in St. Petersburg – from 1200 rubles. up to 3500 rub.

Prices for the service “TCD of cerebral vessels”:

• in Moscow clinics range from 920 rubles. up to 10,000 rubles, averaging 2,600 rubles.
• in St. Petersburg – from 800 rubles. up to 6000 rub.

Ultrasound Dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck (ultrasound Dopplerography) is a diagnostic method that allows you to evaluate vascular system relevant areas using ultrasound. Dopplerography gives an idea of ​​the state of blood flow.

Duplex scanning is more informative, thanks to which you can visualize the vessel, find out the exact cause of the obstructed patency and see the vessels located in the cranial cavity. The most accurate method is color duplex scanning (triplex).

Indications for Doppler ultrasound

Doppler ultrasound allows you to identify risk factors for stroke and select patients for therapeutic, surgical and catheter interventions. You can monitor the condition of the affected arteries responsible for the appearance of symptoms of cerebrovascular accident.

Such a study is indicated in the following situations:

• diseases of the heart and blood vessels: hypertension, history of acute myocardial infarction, hypotension;
• a significant difference in pressure on the hands, absence of a pulse on one of them;
• transient cerebrovascular accidents (transient ischemic attacks);
• frequent headaches, including migraines, tinnitus;
• vestibular disorders: dizziness, unsteadiness while walking;
• impaired coordination of movements;
• memory impairment, decreased concentration, poor sleep;
• decreased vision or temporary blindness in one eye;
• “flies” flashing before the eyes;
• high risk of developing atherosclerosis: obesity, high level cholesterol, diabetes, overweight, smoking;
• operations on neck vessels;
• pulsating formations in the neck;
• previously identified pathology for control purposes;
• convulsive syndrome;
• syncope (fainting);
• osteochondrosis of the cervical spine;
• decreased sensitivity in the upper extremities.

Doppler sonography is not carried out in a situation where a person is unable to lie on his back long time for some reason.

Advantages and disadvantages of vascular ultrasound

Advantages over other methods

Examination of blood vessels using ultrasound is quite informative and safe method diagnostics There is no radiation exposure to the patient. Portable devices are easy to use directly at the patient's bedside.

It is not difficult to determine the location of blood clots and the extent of the atherosclerotic process. It is possible to monitor the condition of blood vessels and evaluate collateral circulation in real time. Already on early stages it is possible to identify those changes that in the future may result in the development of a stroke.

This research method is available to absolutely everyone: most medical centers has at its disposal necessary equipment and specialists. The price is quite reasonable.

Disadvantages of diagnostics

When examining small vessels of the brain, especially those located deep, it is difficult to assess their condition. Dense bone tissue does not transmit ultrasound well. This occurs when the study is performed through the bones of the skull.

How the research is carried out

Preparation for vascular ultrasound

Before the procedure you cannot:

• smoke and drink alcohol;
• drink tonic drinks: tea, coffee, energy drinks;
• some medications (only with your doctor’s permission);
• abuse salty foods.

You need to come to the examination in a calm state.

Ultrasound scanning technique

The required equipment is ultrasound scanner with corresponding functions and a special sensor. The patient is placed on his back, his head is tilted back and a cushion is placed under his neck. The head is turned to the side. After a gel is applied to the skin to ensure close contact with the sensor, the sensor itself is installed in this place.

Ultrasound of vessels located in the neck area is carried out in three planes: longitudinal anterolateral, longitudinal posterolateral and transverse. The sensor slowly moves along the neck in the projection of the vessels.

When examining the arteries and veins of the brain, three approaches can be used: the region of the temporal bone, the orbital and occipital region, where the foramen magnum is located.

If necessary, functional tests are performed.

What you can see and appreciate

An image of the vessels that the sensor is scanning at that moment appears on the monitor. You can determine the diameter of the vessel, the thickness of the wall and its condition. Blood clots, atherosclerotic plaques, vessel narrowing, aneurysms, congenital changes arterial and venous systems.

Doppler ultrasound records the spectrum of Doppler frequencies produced by the bloodstream. The screen displays a kind of graph in the form of waves, the nature of which depends on the intensity of echo signals at various Doppler frequencies from blood elements. Thanks to this study it is possible to determine in which direction the blood flow is moving and at what speed. Obstacles are detected that interfere with normal blood circulation.

The duration of the Doppler ultrasound procedure is on average 30 minutes, sometimes more. The result is given to you immediately.

Which departments are available for research?

Ultrasound scanning of the vessels of the head and neck is carried out in a certain sequence: the vessels of the neck, and then the vessels of the head.

Doppler ultrasound of neck vessels

Another name for the study of this department is ultrasound of the brachiocephalic vessels. The procedure allows you to assess the condition of both arteries and veins.

Doppler ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries is an assessment of the condition and blood flow in the vessels supplying the upper shoulder girdle, soft fabrics head and the brain itself. These include: brachiocephalic trunk, vertebral, subclavian, common carotid, external and internal carotid arteries. Any pathology of these departments can seriously affect a person’s health and lead to impaired cerebral circulation.

Doppler ultrasound for cervical osteochondrosis

Particular attention should be paid to the importance and value of ultrasound of the brachiocephalic vessels in cases of changes in the cervical spine. The vertebral arteries pass between the processes of the vertebrae.

With osteochondrosis, a decrease in the lumen of the intervertebral canal and compression of the arteries by bone outgrowths, hernial protrusions, and spasmed muscles can be observed.

With such changes, the appearance of vertebral artery syndrome is likely, when severe headaches, dizziness with attacks of nausea and vomiting are noted. When turning the head, a person may lose consciousness. Timely diagnosis of such changes helps to avoid serious consequences.

Doppler ultrasound of cerebral vessels

It is carried out only after assessing the condition of the neck vessels. This is the so-called transcranial vascular Doppler ultrasound. The technique allows you to assess the condition of the brain matter, main arteries and veins, collateral circulation and identify signs of intracranial hypertension.

Ultrasound examination of the MAG (main arteries of the head) is highlighted separately, since the pathology of these very vessels often leads to fatal consequences. In essence, these are the same brachiocephalic arteries, but those parts of them that are located in the cranial cavity.

Several areas are used for research.

• Access through the orbit is necessary in order to assess the condition of the arteries supplying the eyes and other vessels in the surrounding area.
• Thanks to transtemporal access ( temporal bone) changes can be seen in the main cerebral arteries: anterior, middle, posterior and other large vessels. Intracranial hemorrhages (hematomas) are well detected.
• When examined through the foramen magnum, pathology of the vertebral arteries and veins can be detected.

Content

Brain cells are so sensitive to a lack of oxygen that even a slight disruption of blood flow leads to serious neurological pathologies. Ultrasonography vessels allows you to solve the problem of cerebrovascular diseases at an early stage. Doctors say that this is the most reliable diagnosis of these diseases. Doppler ultrasound showing the vessels of the head and neck provides a unique opportunity to see a two-dimensional image circulatory system of the study area, and it can be done at a price of 1,000 to 12,000 rubles.

What is Doppler Doppler Doppler of the Head and Neck Vessels?

Ultrasound diagnostics is instrumental method research. Ultrasound waves penetrate the body tissues and are reflected from them, which is recorded by a special sensor. The data is processed by a computer, then displayed on the monitor, after which the image internal environments the doctor studies. Additional feature ultrasound diagnostics– Dopplerography. With its help, you can evaluate the speed and nature of blood flow in the veins and arteries. If the blood flow moves in the direction of the sensor, the computer colors it red; if it moves in the opposite direction, it turns blue.

Indications for use of the procedure

Main medical indication to conduct TCD or ultrasound examination of cerebral vessels is deformation, narrowing (stenosis) or blockage (occlusion) of extracranial (extracranial) vertebral (vertebral) or carotid arteries and intracranial (intracranial) middle, posterior, and forebrain arteries. In clinical practice, the study is prescribed for:

• early detection of intracranial vascular lesions;
• clarification of the degree of blood flow disturbance after traumatic brain injury;
• detection of vascular stenosis after undergoing infectious diseases;
• selection of optimal therapy for migraine to clarify the vasospasm factor;
• assessment of hemodynamics in the brain after organ transplantation;
• identifying the causes of poor blood circulation in the brain due to curvature of the spine, cervical osteochondrosis, compression of the vertebral arteries;
• monitoring the state of cerebral blood flow during surgical operations;
• detection of microembolism in patients with transient circulatory disorders.

An ultrasound of the vessels of the neck and head is prescribed by a doctor at the slightest suspicion of a change in cerebral circulation. The study is also widely used for the prevention of cerebrovascular lesions in people suffering from atherosclerosis or other vascular diseases brain The technique helps prevent the development of strokes and evaluate tactics complex treatment patients.

When is the examination performed on children?

Dopplerography of the vessels of the brain and neck is prescribed in pediatric practice. This method The study helps to correctly diagnose the child and conduct a course of correct therapy for long-term headaches. If a newborn has perinatal pathology, then assessing the condition of the vessels of the head and neck provides an excellent opportunity to prevent serious disorders that over time can lead to disability.

At performing ultrasound examination or TCD, a person does not experience radiation exposure, so the method is ideal for examining children of any age. Indications for Doppler ultrasound in young patients:

• suspected injury to the cervical vertebrae;
• residual (residual) phenomena of perinatal encephalopathy;
• psycho-emotional disinhibition;
• delayed speech development;
• asthenic syndrome (lethargy, high fatigue);
• poor memory, inattentiveness.

Contraindications

Dopplerography is a painless procedure. The study does not violate the integrity of tissues and does not have a negative effect on the body, so there are no contraindications to its implementation. Difficulties can arise only in one case - if the patient for some reason cannot take the supine position required for an ultrasound scan session. A relative contraindication is:

• presence of a wound in the sensor installation area;
• pronounced subcutaneous fat layer;
• location of the vessel under the bone;
• heart rhythm disturbance.

What does ultrasound examination of the vessels of the head and neck show?

The technique provides the specialist with extensive information about the blood supply to the brain based on the following data:

• venous outflow passing from the cranial cavity;
• the speed of venous blood flow through the arteries that supply the brain;
• the degree of development of the reserve (collateral) vascular network;
• bends, crimps or other vascular abnormalities;
• violation of vascular patency, the degree of its severity.

In atherosclerosis, the location of atherosclerotic plaques and the presence of a blood clot are identified. At hypertension a decrease in elasticity, thickening of the arterial walls, and spasm of the cerebral arteries are determined. If blood flow from the brain is disrupted, dilated veins with reduced blood flow may be found. If a change in the direction of blood flow is visible, this indicates the occurrence of various obstacles in its path: the formation of an aneurysm, dissection of the arterial wall.

Preparation

For ultrasound examination of the neck and head special training not required. Before examining the structure of cerebral vessels, you need to notify your doctor about all the medications you are taking. medicines, since there are medications that can affect the results of the procedure. The session is performed in a supine position, with a low pillow placed under the head. Before starting the study, the patient is asked to relax and breathe calmly. The procedure is carried out according to general methodological principles.

Before starting an ultrasound scan of the neck, the doctor palpates the carotid artery to determine the mobility, location of the vessel, and the strength of its pulsation. In the process of ultrasound scanning, simple techniques are used to study the functions of the external and main arteries: 8-10 branches are pinched with a finger, then a test is performed with tilts and turns of the head. Then the doctor studies the speed of blood flow. Next, a transcranial study is performed, which evaluates the tortuosity of the internal branches of the vertebral and carotid arteries, vascular tone, and blood flow along its entire length.

How to do an ultrasound of cerebral vessels

Scanning the blood vessels of the head and neck can be done in 30-50 minutes. In order for the device to show accurate data, you need to remove air between the skin and the transducer (sensor). To do this, at the place of its attachment thin layer A special gel is applied, which must be thoroughly washed off after the session. Doppler ultrasound begins with the vessels of the neck. The doctor applies the sensor to the desired areas and slowly moves it along the blood flow. Then the specialist moves on to examining the vessels of the head.

For this, the uniform rules of ultrasound diagnostics are applied: data is recorded through the temples, which act as windows for better conduction of the ultrasound signal. The sensor picks up the ultrasound that is reflected from the vein or artery and then sends it to the monitor. The resulting picture does not resemble the usual image of a vessel. During an ultrasound scan of the neck and head, sometimes there is a need to carry out various functional tests. To do this, the doctor asks the patient to press the vessels with a sensor or fingers and breathe deeply.

Decoding of ultrasound examination

The results, which show normal patency of the vessels of the head and neck, are as follows:

• the carotid artery (CA) on the left arises from the aorta, and on the right from the brachiocephalic vessel;
• the internal branch of the common carotid artery (CCA) has no other branches until the entrance to the skull;
• the spectral wave in the CCA shows that the speed of diastolic blood flow is the same in the external and internal branches;
• many additional branches branch off from the external branch of the CCA;
• the waveform in the external branch is triphasic, the blood flow velocity in it during diastole is less than in the CCA;
• the waveform in the internal branch is monophasic, the blood flow velocity during diastole is greater than in the CCA;
• the vascular wall has a thickness of no more than 0.12 cm.

Possible disorders and diagnoses

If an ultrasound scan reveals results that are abnormal, this indicates the following diseases:

1. Stenosing atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic plaques are observed. Their features may indicate the ability to embolize. In the early stage of the disease, increased intima-media thickness can be seen on the image.
2. Non-stenotic atherosclerosis. The results of the study show an uneven change in echogenicity in large arteries, a narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels by 20%.
3. Temporal arteritis. The pathology is expressed by uniform diffuse thickening of the vascular walls and decreased echogenicity. If the disease is advanced, then atherosclerotic lesions are also present.
4. Vascular malformations. The patient has an abnormal vascular network that is completely different sizes. The veins extending from the affected area are hypertrophied and have signs of lipotic infiltrates and calcification. The consequence of vascular malformation is the so-called steal syndrome and cerebrovascular accident.
5. Hypoplasia of the vertebral arteries. Pathology is a decrease in the diameter of blood vessels to 2 or less millimeters. The disease is often accompanied by the entry of the cervical vertebrae into the canal of the transverse processes.

Price

Doing an ultrasound scan can be done in almost all clinics that are equipped ultrasonic devices. You can undergo the procedure free of charge with a referral from your attending physician. However, the disadvantage of such a study is a long queue. Sometimes you have to wait for a free ultrasound examination for several weeks; moreover, the patient will not always be able to choose a convenient time for the examination. The procedure is also carried out during examination or treatment in some hospitals (cardiological, neurological and others).

Private clinics quickly perform ultrasound examinations using affordable price and at any convenient time. The cost depends on the level of the medical institution and the degree of qualification of the diagnostician. average price for ultrasound Dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck in the Moscow region:

Video

The normal functioning of the brain, glands and most sense organs directly depends on the amount of oxygen and nutrients transmitted through the bloodstream of the cervical region and head. The most minor violation in the feeding arteries leads to sharp deterioration human well-being and the threat of irreversible brain changes. A timely ultrasound examination of the vessels of the head and neck will help to recognize the presence of pathologies in the arteries in the early stages and take measures to eliminate them.

This research technique is the safest and most accurate among others and has virtually no contraindications for use.

What is ultrasound

Ultrasound Dopplerography of vessels located in the neck and various areas head - the most common method of examining the condition large arteries, which allows you to measure the intensity of blood flow to the brain. When working with a doppleograph, the effect of the same name is used, in which an ultrasonic wave is reflected from a moving liquid and converted into a graphic image on the monitor. The doctor gets the opportunity to visually observe the work of the arteries and assess their condition.

Dopplerography of neck vessels is an alternative to common methods for identifying vascular pathologies, such as arterio- and venography, angiography. With these examination methods, special tinting solutions are injected into the patient’s blood, after which an X-ray examination is performed.

Such diagnostic methods cannot be used in a number of cases, such as:

• severe psycho-emotional disorders in the patient;
• existing inflammation in the acute stage;
• liver or kidney failure;
• unsatisfactory condition of the patient;
• thrombophlebitis;
• existing allergies to medications containing iodine.

Vascular Doppler is absolutely safe and can be used in the above cases without the threat of worsening the patient’s condition. It is used to scan the vessels of the neck and head even in newborn babies.

Types of ultrasound examinations

Diagnostic methods for examining the condition of the vessels of the brain and neck are divided into three groups. Direct use of ultrasound scanning of the vessels of the head and neck allows one to measure the speed of blood flow in the place where the artery has pathological changes and assess the degree of blockage. During this examination, the doctor cannot visually observe the blood vessel itself - only the direction and intensity of blood flow is visible. Modern equipment can project a picture of blood flow in color. Color flow of the neck vessels gives a more visual image of blood flow, its direction and intensity.

A duplex or dual diagnostic method opens up wider opportunities for assessing the condition of the blood supplying vessels - the doctor uses a standard ultrasound machine together with a Doppler ultrasound machine and gets the opportunity to directly see the artery being examined and the blood flow along its course. Duplex examination allows you to detect narrowed areas and determine the size of the lumen between the vascular walls.

The best visualization of the objects being studied is provided by a triplex examination, which uses special computer applications. With their help, the image is made in color and it is easier for the doctor to identify the blood vessel and the direction of movement and speed of blood flow. When using triple scanning, it is easy to detect brachiocephalic atherosclerosis - one of the main reasons that reduces cerebral blood supply. BCA is the most common violation of blood flow to the brain areas not by chance, because the anatomy of the vessels that make up this trunk has a structure that provokes the appearance of sclerotic plaques.

Even more opportunities for accurate diagnosis Transcranial Dopplerography is available, which is used to examine all the vessels located inside the skull. This type of vascular Doppler allows us to examine even the smallest vascular branches in the brain. In most cases, vascular TCD is used to examine the temporal regions, eye sockets, and the place where the back of the head meets the spine.

Advantages of ultrasound diagnostics

Vascular Doppler provides the following advantages over other techniques:

• Great information about the presence of any vascular disorders
• Possibility to evaluate collegial circulation
• Complete safety of the examination and absence of discomfort for the patient during ultrasound examination of cerebral vessels. Unlike using REG of vessels brain, during ultrasound Dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck, electrodes are not applied to the area being examined, and metal plates are not attached anywhere
• Detection of BCA at the earliest stages
• Dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck has no contraindications for use

Another advantage that vascular Doppler has is the ability to assess the degree of blood outflow through venous channels located in the deep tissues of the neck. Using this technique, it is easy to detect pathologies that interfere with the normal movement of blood through the veins.

Indications for diagnosis

An ultrasound scan of the vessels of the neck and head is prescribed by a doctor if necessary to identify disturbances in cerebral blood flow, such as independent method diagnostics or in combination with other methods. Thus, DS can be performed in combination with REG of blood vessels or RVG of the extremities. In most cases, dopplerography of neck vessels is prescribed to assess the development of BCA. Using a Doppler ultrasound, it is easy to determine the degree of intensity of blood flow and determine the size of sclerotic formations on the walls of the arteries.

An ultrasound scan of the neck is prescribed when signs of a decrease in the amount of blood transported to the brain appear, such as:

• loss of sensation or numbness in certain areas of the upper extremities;
• visual impairment on one side - darkening of the eyes, sudden appearance of “midges” and “falling snow”, decreased peripheral perception of the image;
• sudden dizziness, which is often accompanied by fainting;
• psycho-emotional disorders - insomnia, frequent and causeless mood swings, depression;
• the appearance of noise effects in the hearing organs.

Clinical indications for DS are suspicion of stenosis, occlusion or tortuosity of the arteries that pass through cervical region. This technique is often used to examine a child’s neck if there is a suspicion of existing congenital pathologies. In most cases, these are children with existing tortuosity of the vertebral arteries, which can cause brochycephalic syndrome.

IN medical practice Ultrasound examinations using Doppler ultrasound are used for:

• assessing the level of blood flow in the main cerebral arteries;
• studies of the condition of the arteries when there is vascular stenosis;
• determining the degree of filling of blood vessels in various areas of the brain;
• control of cerebral circulation during surgical operations;
• identifying the causes of headaches and sudden dizziness.

In addition to conducting examinations of persons who have pronounced signs lesions of the blood supply to the brain, the ultrasound diagnostic method based on the Doppler effect is used for the prevention and detection early stages the occurrence of atherosclerosis, thrombosis or arteritis in the “risk group”. It includes people who are constantly faced with factors that provoke the occurrence of vascular pathologies.

For patients diagnostic center The following citizens become:

• those suffering from the second or third stage of alcoholism;
• having malignant hypertension;
• sedentary people, office workers who neglect physical exercise;
• people with second and third degree obesity;
• suffering from diabetes.

The only contraindication for use Doppler examination is the presence of traumatic damage to the skin at the site of contact with the equipment sensor.

Results and transcript

The ultrasound examination method using Doppler equipment makes it possible to evaluate the following indicators:

1. The direction and intensity of blood transport through the arteries.
2. Churn rate venous blood through the vessels.
3. Level of development and filling of the collage blood supply system.

After the diagnosis has been completed, the attending doctor is given an examination protocol consisting of the following sections:

• definition, indicating the diagnostic technique used and the list of arteries or veins being examined;
• statement-factual section, where information expressed in certain units of measurement is indicated;
• diagnostic, where information is provided on the identification of vascular pathologies;
• final, containing information about the diagnosis and information about recommended treatment methods, taking into account the specific characteristics of the body condition of the patient being examined.

The examination is carried out in diagnostic departments profile medical institutions. The whole procedure will take a little time, and its results will help the doctor apply the most effective method of providing care to the patient.