Transcranial Doppler Sonography in Acute Ischemic Stroke

ABSTRACT

The acute stage of an ischemic stroke shows various hemodynamic changes of the involved intracranial arteries. Transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) is known to be the only tool that can monitor the hemodynamic changes and microembolic signals in the intracranial artery in real-time after an ischemic stroke. Findings of TCD during systemic thrombolytics could inform us of a recanalization of the occluded vessel and the need for further intervention. It has been accepted that ultrasounds have thrombolytic effect on clots when it is used with systemic thrombolytics although the standard protocol and the evidence for its safety are still lacking until now. In this article, we review current utilities of TCD for the management of acute ischemic strokes.