Spectrum analysis in carotid sonography.

Numerous Doppler spectral parameters for measurement of carotid obstructive lesions have been developed in recent years. This proliferation of parameters has caused sonologists to wonder which are valid and should be used routinely. This review article surveys the most commonly used Doppler spectral parameters. The physiological basis for each parameter is considered along with clinical applications and limitations. The use of spectral parameters for measuring carotid stenoses is summarized by means of an algorithm.