Expected duration
20-40 minutes
Preparation
Usually no special preparation
Report
As arranged
Comfort
Usually well tolerated
What is Carotid Duplex Ultrasound?
Carotid duplex ultrasound uses sound waves to examine the carotid arteries in the neck and assess the direction and speed of blood flow.
It may identify plaque, narrowing, or other blood-flow changes. Results must be interpreted with symptoms, history, and the treating clinician's assessment.
Common Reasons for Referral
- Previous stroke or transient ischemic attack when imaging is requested by a clinician
- Clinician-directed assessment of established vascular risk factors
- Follow-up of known carotid plaque or narrowing
- Assessment requested for known heart or peripheral vascular disease
- Follow-up before or after a selected carotid procedure
- A neck bruit or another clinical indication identified by the treating clinician
What Happens During the Examination
- 1You lie comfortably with the neck positioned for the examination
- 2Ultrasound gel is applied to the neck
- 3The transducer is moved gently along both sides of the neck
- 4Images and blood-flow measurements are recorded
- 5The findings are documented for clinical review
Frequently Asked Questions
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