SVU 2025 Annual Conference Physiologic Diagnostics Testing Session-Physiologic Diagnostics Testing Session

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The Physiologic Diagnostics Session, moderated by Dr. Abraham Ederher, showcased demonstrations on advanced vascular diagnostic techniques using various physiologic machines. Marguerite Marlowe emphasized the continuing significance of vascular physiologic exams, such as ABI and Doppler waveforms, in assessing peripheral arterial disease despite the prominence of duplex ultrasound. She detailed proper patient positioning and waveform acquisition, stressing focus on the patient rather than solely the screen, and the importance of signal quality and avoiding venous interference.<br /><br />Dr. David Williams illustrated classifying Doppler and pulse volume recording (PVR) waveforms, highlighting their utility, especially in diabetic foot ulcer assessment and surgical planning. He underscored consistency in gain settings across PVRs for accurate comparison and interpretation. Brianna Shashard demonstrated assessing the completeness of the palmar arch using photoplethysmography (PPG), a helpful tool for vascular surgeons, while Jasmine explained evaluating thoracic outlet syndrome through PPG monitoring of arm positions inducing arterial flow changes.<br /><br />Matthew Allen discussed continuous wave Doppler technique for common femoral artery waveform acquisition, emphasizing precise probe placement to avoid sampling errors, particularly at vessel bifurcations. Lisa Kadosh explained skin perfusion pressure measurement, valuable in patients with non-compressible vessels for wound healing assessment and amputation level decisions, utilizing laser Doppler sensors to assess microcirculation.<br /><br />Robert McLaughlin demonstrated transcranial Doppler of the vertebral-basilar system via the suboccipital window, describing patient and probe positioning, waveform characteristics, and challenges in detecting posterior circulation abnormalities.<br /><br />The session concluded with a Q&A on technical aspects like gain adjustment, cuff sizes, waveform interpretation nuances, PPG variability, and clinical relevance. Presenters advised standardizing protocols, focusing on diagnostic waveform contours, ensuring reproducibility, and integrating physiologic data to inform vascular intervention planning and patient care. Hands-on sessions provided attendees further opportunity to engage with these technologies.

Keywords

Physiologic Diagnostics

Vascular Diagnostic Techniques

ABI

Doppler Waveforms

Peripheral Arterial Disease

Pulse Volume Recording

Photoplethysmography

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Continuous Wave Doppler

Skin Perfusion Pressure

Transcranial Doppler