Vertebral artery flow refers to the movement of blood through the vertebral arteries, which supply the posterior part of the brain. In vascular ultrasound, assessing vertebral artery flow is crucial for diagnosing conditions like vertebrobasilar insufficiency, subclavian steal syndrome, and other cerebrovascular diseases. This non-invasive imaging technique evaluates flow direction, velocity, and waveform to detect stenosis, occlusion, or other abnormalities.
Accurate ultrasound examination of vertebral artery flow provides vital diagnostic information for neurologists and vascular specialists. It aids in risk assessment for stroke and helps guide treatment strategies for patients experiencing symptoms related to posterior circulation compromise. Understanding normal and abnormal flow patterns is key for comprehensive vascular ultrasound interpretation in medical settings.