What is a transcranial doppler (TCD?)

Transcranial doppler bubble ultrasonography is a special test designed to assess the amount of blood cells moving between the heart chambers in patients who have had a stroke or heart attack when a hole in the heart (patent foramen ovale) is suspected to be the cause. 

During the test, high-frequency sound waves are sent into the brain through the side of the head to create images of the arteries.

A needle will be placed in your arm to inject bubble contrast during a special breathing exercise. As the sound waves bounce off the bubbles in the blood, a clear trace appears on a computer screen allowing us to assess the size of the hole and determine your prognosis.

How is this test performed?

A doctor or cardiac physiologist will perform the TCD. This test is usually done in conjunction with a contrast echo; once the echo has been performed the doctor may decide that additional useful information can be obtained via a TCD test.

We will place a small hand-held transducer (echo recorder) on the side of your head. This will have a small amount of lubricating jelly on it. 

Images of the blood vessels in your head are created and then a small amount of contrast will be injected while images of the blood vessels are taken.

How long does a TCD take?

The length of an examination can vary but it generally takes about 30 minutes. 

When can I expect to receive the results?

A doctor or cardiac physiologist will report on your echocardiogram immediately after the test. The results will then be sent to your cardiologist or doctor who will be able to discuss the results with you.