A triphasic waveform in vascular ultrasound indicates healthy arterial blood flow, characterized by three distinct phases: rapid forward flow during systole, transient flow reversal in early diastole, and a second brief forward flow component in late diastole. This pulsatile pattern is commonly seen in peripheral arteries, reflecting a high-resistance vascular bed with competent arterial walls.
Detecting a triphasic waveform is crucial in medical imaging, as its absence or alteration can signify vascular disease such as stenosis or occlusion. Understanding this pattern aids in diagnosing conditions like peripheral artery disease, making it a key diagnostic marker for clinicians evaluating arterial health with ultrasound.