Abstract
Purpose: To examine optic nerve head blood flow (ONHBF) using Power Doppler. Power Doppler integrates the intensity of the Doppler signal indirectly counting total RBC traveling through vessels independent from the angle of the vasculature. Methods: A commercial color/ power Doppler ultrasound scanner (ATL, Ultramark 9 HDI) was used to acquire the color and power Doppler images of the region of the ONH. Standardized scanner settings were used to help insure reproducibility. Images were digitized at 640 X 480 resolution (true color) for later analysis. Images were analyzed by visual inspection using a five point flow rating scale and also by computerized image analysis using custom software. Healthy volunteers and patients with untreated "normal tension glaucoma" were examined. Results: Using this method, we have been able to record reliable and reproducible ONHBF estimates on normal subjects. Decreased blood flow to the ONH was demonstrated by Power Doppler on eyes with "normal tension glaucoma." Conclusion: Power Doppler is a new useful imaging adjunct in the evaluation of ONHBF relating to glaucoma.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Journal | Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science |
| Volume | 37 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| State | Published - Feb 15 1996 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Ophthalmology