[Color Doppler ultrasound of the mediastinum. Examination technique and sectional anatomy of the image].

The standardized technique and typical normal findings of color-coded duplex sonography of the mediastinum are described. Anatomical structures of the sonographical presentations are explained. Important mediastinal regions, vessels and lymph nodes can be assessed sonographically. The conventional B-mode technique provides topographical orientation and is suitable for high-resolution imaging of mediastinal structures. The color-coded display of blood flow allows reliable identification of the various mediastinal vessels. The qualitative and quantitative characterization of blood flow (flow direction, flow velocity, flow quality: arterial-venous, laminar, turbulent) provides additional noninvasive information about the hemodynamics of the mediastinal vascular system.