On September 18, 2025, the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at the University Medical Center Ulm hosted a specialized training on Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography in the context of hemoglobinopathies. The event was organized by Prof. Holger Cario, a leading figure in pediatric hematology, and brought together esteemed trainers: Dr. Matthias Schaal, Dr. Wolfgang Loichinger, and Dr. Matthias Baiker.
Why TCD Matters in Hemoglobinopathies
Hemoglobinopathies, particularly sickle cell disease, carry a heightened risk of cerebrovascular complications such as ischemic stroke in children. Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography has become a vital, non-invasive tool for early detection of increased cerebral blood flow velocities, helping clinicians identify children at risk and initiate timely preventive interventions. By equipping pediatricians and hematologists with the necessary skills, TCD training directly contributes to stroke prevention and improved quality of life for affected patients.
A Balance of Theory and Practice
The Ulm training was carefully designed with both theoretical and practical sessions, allowing participants to build a solid foundation in TCD principles and immediately apply this knowledge in hands-on practice. Theoretical lectures covered the scientific basis, standardized protocols, and interpretation of TCD findings, while practical workshops provided supervised scanning experience on real cases.
This dual approach ensured that attendees not only understood the clinical significance of TCD but also gained confidence in performing and interpreting examinations in their daily practice.
Participant Reflections
The warm and collegial atmosphere of the course was matched by its scientific and practical excellence. Participants expressed deep appreciation for the organization and training quality:
“I would like to thank you all, Prof. Holger, both Matthias and Wolfgang, for the extraordinary event you organized. So happy being in your city as well, in sunny days and good company.”
Another participant noted:
“I would like to thank the whole TCD team for an outstanding organization. In a very pleasant and friendly atmosphere this course looked like each course of this kind should look like – very practical and straightforward, with possibility to learn skills which can be immediately transformed in our own experience and quickly become beneficial for our patients.”
Looking Ahead
The success of this training underlines the importance of capacity building in specialized diagnostic techniques. With more clinicians now skilled in TCD, the pediatric hematology community in Europe—and beyond—is better equipped to deliver early interventions that save lives and improve patients’ lives.
Ulm, with its sunny September days and warm collegial spirit, proved to be an inspiring backdrop for advancing both knowledge and collaboration in the fight against stroke in children with hemoglobinopathies.