Raw Data Storage
Dolphin TCD
The Dolphin Transcranial Doppler (TCD) instrument represents the next step in the advancement of this clinically relevant modality.
One of Dolphin’s many unique capabilities is the ability to acquire, utilize, store, and retrospectively analyze all the captured Doppler reflections along the ultrasound beam. We refer to this data collectively as “Raw”. The reason this data is referred to as Raw is that the vast majority of this data is not initially analyzed by the software algorithm used to generate real time TCD related measurements or calculations.
To understand how Dolphin is unique in this respect one must understand that earlier generation TCD systems do not capture or store all the Raw data.
1st generation TCD systems did not have the ability to store any of the Doppler reflection data that was used in their calculations. You could see the screenshot of the Spectral Waveform that was generated by the data, you could see the associated measurements that were calculated using the data, but the data that was actually used to generate the screenshots and associated measurements was not stored.
2nd Generation systems were designed to capture and store the data that was used to generate the Spectral waveforms and associated measurements (some of the reflected doppler information). This allowed researchers to better validate the measurements. It also allowed Technologists to scroll back and select preferred spectral waveforms (though only within the stored sample volume used for the calculations).
The Dolphin is a 3rd generation TCD system which allows for full retrospective analysis of all of the Doppler reflected raw data (at all depth at all times). This means that spectral and velocity data from depths outside the sample volume that the technologists used for the initial measurements can now be retrospectively assessed, analyzed, and even replayed with Doppler audio.
Having short or long term access to this additional clinical information (which is independent of additional access to the patient) provides an ever evolving list of benefits to Researchers, Technologists, and Readers alike. Which is why IMUSA and VIASONIX would like to encourage your facility to take the time to better understand and communicate the potential of this new and impactful advancement in TCD to your Neurovascular team.
