Abstract: Combined blood flow and blood pressure measurements are used for the calculation of central vascular blood flow parameters. Blood flow measurements may be made simultaneously with arterial pressure measured either centrally or peripherally and central venous pressure for the monitoring of human subjects. A combined blood flow and blood pressure measurement device for hemodynamic monitoring may include a Doppler ultrasound probe utilizing a continuous wave or pulse wave ultrasound beam for the measurement of blood flow in the aorta, combined with arterial pressure measurement, or signal input from a suitable pressure transducer system from one of either the radial, brachial, dorsalis pedis or femoral artery. The ultrasound probe may comprise either an esophageal or suprasternal ultrasound probe, while the blood pressure measurement may be either an electronic transducer blood pressure sphygmomanometer on the arm, or a finger cot infrared light optical pulse detector.

Abstract: An oesophageal Doppler monitoring probe tip for use with an oesophageal Doppler monitoring probe include a first end coupled to an elongated flexible shaft, a molded substrate and an ultrasound transducer assembly affixed to the molded substrate. The probe tip also includes a see-through boot encapsulating the molded substrate and ultrasound transducer assembly. In certain embodiments, the additional use of a see-through sealant material may be used to affix or secure one or more components of the ultrasound transducer assembly in place.