What is The Test?
The carotid arteries are the vessels that supply blood from your heart to your brain. This exam uses high frequency sound waves that produces images of these arteries. This exam looks for any blockages within the carotid arteries and grades the severity of the blockages.
Patient Preparation
- There is no preparation for this exam.
What to Expect
Once in the exam room, you will lie down on the exam table. The technologist will apply warm gel to your neck and use a transducer to send the ultrasound waves into your body. The ultrasound waves will produce a picture of your carotid arteries on the screen of the machine. During this exam, the technologist will take several pictures of your carotid arteries and will also listen to your blood flow. You may hear some noises that sound like your heart beat. You will feel nothing during the exam except slight pressure from the ultrasound transducer when it is placed against your skin. The exam will take 30-45 minutes. When the exam is finished, our vascular specialist will review the information and the final report will be discussed with you during your follow up visit.