What is the main purpose of Doppler ultrasound in cardiovascular diagnostics?

Doppler ultrasound primarily serves to assess blood flow within the cardiovascular system. This technique utilizes the Doppler effect to measure changes in the frequency of ultrasound waves as they reflect off moving blood cells. By analyzing these frequency changes, healthcare providers can determine the velocity and direction of blood flow in arteries and veins.

This capability is crucial for diagnosing various cardiovascular conditions, such as arterial blockages, venous thrombosis, and heart valve issues. Doppler ultrasound provides valuable information regarding hemodynamics, which aids in decision-making for treatment plans or further diagnostic imaging.

The other choices, while relevant to different diagnostic purposes, do not pertain to the primary function of Doppler ultrasound. For instance, tumor detection typically involves other imaging modalities such as MRI or CT scans, measuring heart rate is more directly related to ECG monitoring, and visualizing brain activity is generally associated with EEG techniques. Thus, the focus of Doppler ultrasound is distinctly on its ability to evaluate blood flow, making it an essential tool in cardiovascular diagnostics.