Carotid Artery Ultrasound

Carotid ultrasound shows whether a substance called plaque has narrowed your carotid arteries. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Plaque builds up on the insides of your arteries as you age, causing Carotid Artery Disease (CAD).

Too much plaque in your carotid artery can lead to stroke. The plaque can slow down or block the flow of blood through the artery, allowing a blood clot to form. A piece of the blood clot can break off and get stuck in your artery, blocking blood flow to the brain.

There are several tests which can screen for CAD, including angiogram, MRI or ultrasound. By far, carotid ultrasound is the most common test to assess the carotid artery. It is a safe, sensitive, and inexpensive test. Carotid ultrasound is a painless test that uses high-frequency waves to create pictures of the insides of the two large arteries in your neck. It is a non-invasive procedure that causes no discomfort.  A standard carotid ultrasound shows the structure of your carotid arteries. Sometimes carotid ultrasound is used as a preventive screening test in people who have medical conditions that increase their risk of stroke, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

Who needs Carotid Ultrasound?

• Had a stroke or mini-stroke recently.
• Have an abnormal sound in your carotid artery called a carotid bruit (broo-E). A bruit may suggest a partial blockage in your carotid artery that could lead to a stroke.

How is the test done?

After lying down on a bed, the neck area is exposed and a gel is applied on the skin. A small probe is then placed over the neck and the carotid artery is visualized and imaged. The probe also monitors the velocity of blood flow through the carotids artery. The degree of stenosis can be accurately measured with this technique. The process is then repeated on the other side of the neck.

Is the test painful?

Ultrasound of the carotids is a painless study. It has no discomfort, except for the application of the gel, which needs to be wiped off at the end of the study.

Is ultrasound safe?

Ultrasound is non-invasive, it does not require any sedation and there is no use of dyes or radiation.

What preparation is needed?

Generally, no preparation is needed prior to the study. One does not require any sedation and one can eat on the morning of the test. You will be asked to remove any jewelry from around the neck and wear a loose fitting, open necked shirt or blouse.

Who performs the tests?

These tests are performed by certified technologists. These technologists have credentialing by the national accrediting organization.

Who reads the tests?

 The tests are always read by a radiologist who has additional training in the field of ultrasound.

No prescription is necessary. A primary care provider will need to be identified upon registration, so that the screening results can be forwarded to them.

To schedule a carotid artery ultrasound, please call 208-756-5641.