In velocity profiling, what does the baseline velocity represent?

In velocity profiling, what does the baseline velocity represent?

• A. 5 cm/s
• B. 10 cm/s
• C. 1 cm/s
• D. 0 cm/s

Answer: (D)

Baseline velocity is the zero-velocity reference on a velocity profile. It represents no net movement of blood along the ultrasound beam, so the Doppler shift is zero at that line. Velocities shown above or below this baseline correspond to flow toward or away from the transducer, respectively. Even though blood is moving in the vessel, the velocity component along the measurement axis can be zero at the baseline, making 0 cm/s the correct representation.

Baseline velocity is the zero-velocity reference on a velocity profile. It represents no net movement of blood along the ultrasound beam, so the Doppler shift is zero at that line. Velocities shown above or below this baseline correspond to flow toward or away from the transducer, respectively. Even though blood is moving in the vessel, the velocity component along the measurement axis can be zero at the baseline, making 0 cm/s the correct representation.