[Current status of transcranial color duplex ultrasound in the adult]

Technical improvements accomplished over the last few years allow imaging of intracranial parenchymal structures as well as of basal cerebral arteries by ultrasound. Low frequency probes (2-2.5 MHz) and colour Doppler technology are required for these examinations. Recent experience in clinical practice proves that perfusion patterns in basal cerebral arteries can be depicted more accurately and with better reproducibility compared to conventional transcranial Doppler sonography. Simultaneous B-Mode imaging allows detection of cerebral haemorrhage, brain tumours and ventricular enlargement. Preliminary data on the sensitivity and specificity are promising and encourage further prospective studies.