What is the primary benefit of using Doppler ultrasound?

The primary benefit of using Doppler ultrasound is that it effectively assesses blood flow and cardiac function. Doppler ultrasound leverages the Doppler effect, which measures the change in frequency of sound waves as they reflect off moving objects, such as red blood cells. This capability allows clinicians to evaluate the speed and direction of blood flow within vessels, helping to diagnose conditions like stenosis, thrombosis, and valvular heart disease.

While other imaging techniques can visualize soft tissue structures, enhance image contrast, or produce 3D images, these features are not the main focus of Doppler ultrasound. The technology is specifically designed to provide insights into hemodynamics, making it invaluable in both diagnostic and therapeutic contexts.