Role of Doppler Ultrasound in Monitoring Atherosclerotic Disease Progression

Abstract

The atherosclerotic plaque produces problems by two possible mechanisms: 1) a reduction in blood flow, and 2) release of materials either attached to the surface or from the contents of the plaque itself. For vascular beds such as the lower extremity, the visceral arteries and the renal circulation, the sequelae of the lesion depends primarily upon the extent of narrowing and its effect on blood flow to the organ. This occurs when the plaque has reached sufficient size to reduce both the perfusion pressure and flow beyond the lesion. This degree of narrowing is commonly referred to as a “critical stenosis”.