Ep.We.1001Name That Tune - Acccuracy of Interpreting Hand-Held Doppler Audio Signals in the Assessment of Peripheral Arterial Circulation

Abstract

Abstract Aims Interpretation of Doppler audio signals among non-podiatrist has not been thoroughly investigated. This study analyses the accuracy of interpretation of Doppler audio signals among clinicians. Methods A single-centre prospective single blind study was used. Clinicians in the vascular department and with prior vascular experience in a district general hospital participated in interpreting 15 12-second Doppler audio signals (5 monophasic, 5 biphasic and 5 triphasic) into either ‘monophasic’, ‘biphasic’ and ‘triphasic’ using a Huntleigh’s Dopplex DMXTM digital hand-held Doppler ultrasound with visual waveform display covered. After all the audio signals were graded, the waveforms of each doppler signals are shown on the hand-held doppler display to reveal the correct responds. Results 8 clinicians were involved; 5 had less than 6 months of vascular experience. Out of 15 audio signals, the mean number correct grading of signals was 10.1. There is no difference in number of correct grading of the 3 waveforms (monophasic 3.5 out of 5, biphasic 3.25 out of 5, triphasic 3.5 out of 5). There is also no difference in responses between clinicians with less than 6 months and more than 6 months of vascular experience (p = 0.82). Conclusions There is a need for further ongoing education among clinicians in the use of hand held Doppler and interpretation of its audio signals. Reliability of Doppler examination in vascular assessment is also in contention, and further studies are required. The use of digital hand-held Doppler with visual wave form display will significantly improve accuracy of interpretation