What characteristic does a normal analog Doppler waveform of the Subclavian or Axillary artery resemble?

The normal analog Doppler waveform of the Subclavian or Axillary artery is characterized by having a triphasic pattern, which is similar to the waveform observed in the Common Femoral or Superficial Femoral artery. This triphasic waveform indicates healthy arterial blood flow with brisk acceleration, a rapid peak, and a distinct drop-off, reflecting normal vascular resistance and the effects of peripheral arterial flow dynamics.

The reason this is the correct comparison is that both the Subclavian/Axillary arteries and the Common/Superficial Femoral arteries are high-resistance vessels due to their locations and roles in supplying blood to the upper and lower extremities, respectively. This similarity in their waveform structure signifies comparable hemodynamic conditions and reflects normal physiology.

The other choices do not accurately represent the waveform characteristics of the Subclavian or Axillary artery. The Radial artery waveform typically has a more biphasic pattern, reflective of lower resistance and lower peripheral flow demands compared to the Subclavian and Femoral arteries. The Popliteal artery waveform may also show variations that differ from the triphasic pattern, especially in peripheral vascular disease scenarios. Lastly, the Femoral vein waveform is distinctly different, as it does not exhibit the pulsatile