Doppler probe
Velocity measurement on the beating heart is challenging with muscle contraction causing movements detected by the Doppler. Using the Doppler probe stabilizer, the probe head can be fixed to the surface omitting the need for an external mechanical stabilizer to immobilize the heart surface. The stabilized probe is held in position with a small layer of coupling agent inside the stabilizer cup.
The Doppler probe can also be used with a removable handle when a mechanical stabilizer is available or when measuring on a stable surface. The small probe head can be used with forceps for increased access or during endoscopic procedures.
The Doppler probe transmits an ultrasound wave burst of a known frequency and length. Moving objects will reflect some of the ultrasound energy back to the probe. Objects moving towards the probe will compress the wavelength and objects moving away from the probe will increase the wavelength. The change in frequency can be detected by comparing the received signals with the transmitted signal. The changed frequency (Doppler shift) represents the velocity and direction of the reflecting object. MiraQ applies a pulsed Doppler, allowing the user to control the depth and size of the area at which the velocities should be measured.
