Transcutaneous measurement of blood velocity profiles and flow

A comprehensive report is presented of the application of a pulsed ultrasound Doppler velocity meter for transcutaneous measurement of time varying velocity, velocity profiles, and instantaneous flow in arteries of anaesthetized dogs. The procedure used to provide direct velocity and flow calibration using the Doppler equation is outlined. Typical transcutaneous recordings obtained from the femoral artery, abdominal aorta, and carotid artery are illustrated. The results compare favourably with data obtained by invasive means such as electromagnetic cuff flowmeters. The possibility of high resolution, non-invasive haemodynamic measurements on dogs is demonstrated and the application to conscious human subjects suggested.