Abstract

The regular measurement of cardiac output remains limited to the intensive care environment. It involves the insertion of a flotation pulmonary artery catheter, and while the complications associated with the instrumentation are quite small, values can only be obtained during the short period of time the catheter is in situ. Measurement of cardiac output with continuous wave Doppler monitoring is non-invasive and can be performed at any time with no harm to the patient. The accuracy of Doppler monitors has been evaluated in the past with good results. In the not very distant future suprasternal Doppler will become a day-to-day tool for the clinician in different specialities. The physical principles, derived values and clinical applications are reviewed. Especial emphasis is paid to haemodynamic changes observed with suprasternal Doppler during air ambulance transport.

Keywords: Doppler, review, suprasternal