Diagnostics & Testing

What is TCD (Transcranial Doppler)?

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The TCD is a test that measures the velocity of blood flow through certain blood vessels by means of an ultrasound.
The test detects and monitors vasospasm in patients with spontaneous or traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage.
It also evaluates and determines the risk for a stroke.
In addition, it detects and checks on intracranial aneurysms.

Before the procedure

Please bring your Emirates ID and insurance card.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
You will meet with a Patient Access Representative (PAR) at the registration desk, who will review your medical insurance card, Emirates ID and perform your registration check in. You will meet with a Patient Access Representative (PAR) at the registration desk, who will review your medical insurance card, Emirates ID and perform your registration check in.
You will then see a technician who will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions that you may have.
You will be instructed to bring a responsible adult with you to drive and accompany you home after the procedure.

The day of the procedure

Normal 6-8 hours of sleep night before appointment time.
You are not allowed to have any caffeinated beverages and foods such as tea, coffee, colas, and chocolate, at least 8hours before your scheduled appointment. In addition, no smoking is allowed at least 8 hours before your scheduled appointment. Eat a regular diet before coming to your appointment.
Take your usual medications. Bring a list of your medications with you to your appointment.
Please refrain from applying any hair care products (e.g. hair gel, hairspray) and makeup prior to the study as these will interfere with the recordings.
Please be on time for your appointment otherwise, it will be rescheduled.

please notify the call center if you will be late for your appointment. The grace period is 15 minutes only. Note:

During the procedure

The procedure takes from 30 minutes to one hour to complete.
You will be asked to hold still and follow the instructions provided by the technician.
Cold gel will be applied to enhance the view of the ultrasound. The technician will be listening to your blood flow velocities, and you will see red and blue color blood flow displayed on the machine.

Discharge instructions

You will meet with a Patient Access Representative (PAR) at the registration desk who will review your follow-up appointment schedule.
Results will be released by the HIMS (Hospital Information Management System), located on Level P1, after five working days. During your follow-up appointment, your physician will discuss your test results with you.

Expected side effects following TCD

There are no side effects associated with this procedure.

, Sunday through Thursday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.800 8 CCAD (2223), extension 65819If you have any questions or concerns, please call Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi at

This information is provided by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of Mubadala Healthcare, and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.

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