Pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound: Accuracy, variability, and impact of acquisition parameters on flow measurements.

Background: Pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound is a useful modality for assessing vascular health as it quantifies blood flow characteristics. To facilitate accurate diagnosis, accuracy and consistency of this modality should be assessed through Doppler quality assurance (QA).

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to characterize the accuracy, reproducibility, and inter-scanner variability of ultrasound flow velocity measurements via a flow phantom, with a focus on the effect of systematic acquisition parameters on measured flow velocity accuracy.