title: Limitations in the accuracy of peak frequency measurements in the diagnosis of carotid disease.
abstract: Peak Doppler frequency is an index of the severity of carotid stenosis. Variability in this measurement is examined through in vitro and clinical studies. In vitro studies, using a carotid flow model, show that observers locate a stenosis and interpret the peak frequency differently, and each observer uses a different probe-vessel angle. Clinical studies support these findings. Comparison of 304 carotid Doppler studies with arteriograms demonstrates 90% overall clinical accuracy. Each observer has a consistent range of peak frequency measurements, yet the description of a discrete percent stenosis is limited by observer variability.
mesh_terms: D001783:Blood Flow Velocity; D002339:Carotid Arteries / Q000473:pathology; D002340:Carotid Artery Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003251:Constriction, Pathologic; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008955:Models, Cardiovascular; D014463:Ultrasonography