Pulsatility index

The Pulsatility Index (PI) is a key metric in vascular ultrasound, quantifying the degree of pulsatility in blood flow. It’s calculated as the peak systolic velocity minus the end diastolic velocity, divided by the mean velocity. A higher PI indicates more pulsatile flow, often seen in arteries with less resistance downstream, while a lower PI suggests reduced pulsatility, which can be indicative of increased distal resistance or stenosis.

This measurement is crucial for diagnosing various vascular conditions, including peripheral artery disease, renal artery stenosis, and assessing fetal well-being in obstetric ultrasound. Sonographers and clinicians utilize the pulsatility index to evaluate circulatory health, guide treatment decisions, and monitor patient response to interventions, making it an indispensable tool in medical ultrasound diagnostics.

Other Definitions
Want to learn more?

POCUS Essentials Course

Learn More
Related Definitions
Other Definitions
Cardiac

Contribute to the POCUSpedia

Help us improve the accuracy and completeness of the POCUSpedia. Your contributions help maintain the highest standards of factual content.
Contributors who provide verified corrections or additions will be credited with a link to their chosen web address. We appreciate your expertise and time in helping us maintain accurate information about POCUS

As a [Specialty] clinician, POCUS has completely changed how I practice. GUSI’s training gave me the confidence to make faster, more accurate decisions for my patients.

JONATHAN DOE
Private Practice Owner

Suggest a Correction

* Required fields

“”