Carotid Doppler
What is it?
Carotid doppler ultrasound scanning is a painless
procedure that measures the amount of blood flow in the
carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are the two major
arteries on each side of the neck that carry blood to the
head.
Who needs this procedure?
Carotid doppler ultrasound scanning is used to evaluate
the risk of stroke in patients who have a history of
stroke or are believed to be at high risk.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
There are no special preparations for this procedure.
How is this procedure performed?
A carotid doppler ultrasound scan takes about 15 to 30
minutes, although times may vary. To perform this test,
the healthcare professional will first squirt a clear
jelly on one side of your neck. He or she will then place
a sensor that looks like a wand or a microphone on the
jelly. The jelly makes it easy for the ultrasound sensor
to slide against your skin. As the healthcare professional
moves the sensor around on your neck, a picture appears on
a monitor. This picture shows the different rates of blood
flow through the arteries. This procedure will then be
repeated for the other side of your neck. Any narrowing of
the carotid arteries will show up as an area of reduced
blood flow. Narrowed carotid arteries are a leading cause
of stroke.
What can I expect after the procedure?
When the procedure is complete, the healthcare
professional will wipe off the jelly and you will be free
to resume your normal activities. This test has no side
effects. Your doctor will receive a report of the test
results and notify you.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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