What does a CW Doppler waveform from a Pop A suggest if there is interference from venous flow?

A continuous wave (CW) Doppler waveform from a popliteal artery that shows interference from venous flow is indicative of the presence of mixed signal patterns. This interference can create a confusing waveform, making it challenging to accurately assess the arterial flow. When venous flow is present alongside arterial signals, it can affect the quality of the arterial tracing.

The correct answer reflects the observation that the Doppler waveform is not purely representing arterial flow, but instead is being influenced by venous return, which can mask or distort the arterial signals. This underscores the importance of understanding and isolating the different types of flow when interpreting Doppler studies, as it is crucial for accurate vascular assessments.

In this context, the presence of venous flow alongside arterial waveforms can complicate the interpretation of the results, highlighting the need for clinicians to be cognizant of possible sources of interference when analyzing Doppler waveforms.