Which of the following is a common use of Doppler ultrasound?

Doppler ultrasound is primarily utilized for evaluating blood flow in vessels. This technology leverages the Doppler effect, which involves the change in frequency or wavelength of sound waves reflected off moving objects, such as red blood cells. By measuring these changes, healthcare providers can assess the speed and direction of blood flow, which is crucial for detecting abnormalities like blood clots, blockages, or vascular diseases.

In contrast, the other options represent different imaging techniques or purposes. Assessing tissue elasticity typically involves elastography methods rather than Doppler ultrasound. Identifying fractures in bones is generally done using conventional X-rays or CT scans, as these methods provide clearer images of bony structures. Conducting fetal anatomy scans involves standard ultrasound imaging, which focuses on visualizing the fetus’s structure and growth but does not primarily assess blood flow like Doppler ultrasound does. Thus, the application of Doppler technology in evaluating blood flow is a clear and critical use, distinguishing it from the functionalities of other imaging modalities.