AUTHORS
JoonNyung Heo, MD, PhD
Abstract
Background
Microembolic signals (MESs), detected via transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, provide real-time insights into embolic events and are valuable in stroke risk assessment and treatment monitoring.
Purpose
This review summarizes a decade of evidence (2014–2024) on MESs, focusing on their clinical significance, associated conditions, and advancements in monitoring technologies.
Materials and Methods
A systematic PubMed search identified 327 studies; 60 clinical studies related to MESs were included. Key themes analyzed include MES diagnostic criteria, disease associations, procedural applications, and technological developments.
Results
MESs are closely linked to carotid/cerebral artery stenosis, atrial fibrillation, and other conditions. They predict stroke recurrence, cognitive decline, and procedural complications. MES monitoring is useful for evaluating embolic risks in surgeries and procedures such as catheter ablation and aneurysm coiling. Emerging technologies, including wearable Doppler systems and algorithms differentiating emboli types, expand MES clinical applications.
Conclusion
MESs are essential biomarkers for cerebrovascular risk and embolic events. Future efforts should focus on enhancing accessibility through long-term, wireless monitoring tools to fully leverage their diagnostic and prognostic potential.
