Combined 2D-Echo and Doppler Compared to Doppler Without Imaging. Assessment of Prosthetic Valves.

Abstract

The combination of simultaneous 2D-echo with pulsed and CW Doppler was expected to improve Doppler recording by facilitating orientation and identification of signals and to make angle assessment easier. Expected drawbacks were reduced sensitivity of the Doppler and possible less good access with a larger transducer. A stand-alone pulsed and CW Doppler *) has been used parallell with a combined simultaneous 2D-echo and pulsed and CW Doppler **) to assess the relative importance of these factors. The stand-alone Doppler was used with analogue curves and the combined 2D-echo and Doppler included spectral analysis. For assessment of prosthetic valves the stand-alone Doppler has been used for several years and the combined 2D-echo and Doppler for some months.