Subclavian Artery (SCA) Interpretation Criteria

Criteria and Application Instructions:

a. Elevated PSV with visualized plaque and documentation of post-stenotic turbulence (PST) is of importance in documenting significant stenosis.  

b. Blood pressures may be asymmetrical with stenosis of the subclavian / brachiocephalic arteries.  

c. Pressures may remain symmetrical or there may be bilateral stenosis

Innominate/Brachiocephalic Artery

a. Significant stenosis is relatively rare, but of great importance due to its contribution to both anterior and posterior circulation. 

b. Findings: Focal increase in velocity, delayed systolic upstroke, asymmetry between PSV in bilateral CCA, significant flow disturbance in right CCA and SCA or VA waveform changes.