Comparison of normal values of Duplex indices of vertebral arteries in young and elderly adults

BACKGROUND Considering the role of aging in brain atrophy and cerebral vascular demand, we carried out this study to clarify the role of aging in duplex indices of vertebral arteries. METHODS From June 2005 to June 2006, 96 volunteers with age range of 20 to 95 years, were evaluated with color doppler for duplex indices of vertebral arteries. Sever hemodynamic stenosis was excluded in all of these patients. These volunteers were subdivided in two groups: younger and older than 60 year old. In all of these patients we measured diameter, peak systolic velocity (PSV), resistive index (RI), and flow volume (FV) of vertebral arteries in right and left sides. RESULTS There was no significant difference in diameter, PSV, RI and FV between two groups. We have clarified that in patients younger than 60 year old, comparing right and left vertebral arteries, PSV and FV were higher in left side. CONCLUSION Duplex indices of vertebral arteries are age independent in adults.