[Ultrasonic diagnosis in the area of the carotid and vertebrobasilar circulation].

At present the duplex ultrasonic method is the best non-invasive examination method of the carotid and vertebrobasilar circulation. It was developed by a combination of the Doppler method with two-dimensional imaging in real time. It makes it possible to evaluate all stages of the stenotic process, the size and surface of plaques, the lumen of the vessels, occlusions. It provides a comprehensive picture of the morphology and function of vessels. The introduction of transcranial Doppler ultrasonography by R. Aaslid in 1982 made it possible to examine also basal intracranial arteries. Examination by ultrasound makes it possible to diagnose vascular changes in still asymptomatic patients; it helps to establish the correct diagnosis, offers the possibility to evaluate the therapeutic effect as well as terminal conditions-cerebral death.