What frequency is commonly used for TCD transducers?

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound transducers typically operate at a frequency of 2.0 MHz. This frequency is optimal for penetrating the skull and providing reliable information regarding blood flow within the cerebral vessels.

At this frequency, the ultrasound waves can effectively differentiate between moving blood cells and the surrounding tissues, which is crucial for assessing hemodynamic changes during intraoperative monitoring. The choice of 2.0 MHz balances the need for sufficient penetration with the ability to maintain a good signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for clear and accurate measurements of blood flow velocities in various cerebral arteries.

Using a frequency that is too low might result in inadequate resolution, whereas a frequency that is too high could lead to diminished penetration ability due to increased attenuation by the bone. Thus, 2.0 MHz is widely accepted as the standard frequency utilized in TCD applications.