Choose the content to read
- What is a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound?
- For whom is a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound recommended?
- What are the risks of a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound?
- What steps are involved in a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound procedure?
- A Note from MedPark’s Doctors
What is a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound?
Doppler ultrasound is a medical imaging test that uses sound waves to assess blood flow. It is a non-invasive, painless procedure that can provide valuable information about the speed and direction of blood moving through your arteries and veins. The frequency of sound waves that bounce off the moving blood cells is slightly shifted compared to the emitted waves. This frequency shift is known as the Doppler effect and is used to calculate the speed and direction of the blood flow. Color Doppler ultrasound combines the information from pulsed wave Doppler with color coding to show the direction of blood flow. Red typically represents blood flowing toward, and blue represents blood flowing away from the ultrasound probe.
A Carotid Doppler Ultrasound assesses the carotid artery for atherosclerotic plaques, constriction, or blockage. It is a painless, quick, non-invasive procedure requiring no fasting period; it is effective in evaluating the blood flow and atherosclerotic changes in the carotid arteries that transport blood from the heart to the brain.
For whom is a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound recommended?
- Individuals who have experienced a transient ischemic attack or other types of strokes.
- Individuals diagnosed with coronary artery disease.
- Individuals with atherosclerosis.
- Individuals with a carotid bruit.
- Individuals with a family history of stroke or heart disease.
- Individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.
Additionally, a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound is useful for:
- Locating the site of the blockages.
- Assessing the outcome of endarterectomy.
- Diagnosing an aneurysm and determining the cause of amaurosis fugax.
- Checking the blood flow during carotid stent placement.
What are the risks of a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound?
There are no significant risks associated with a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound. Some people may develop allergic reactions to ultrasound gel. The procedure may rarely damage the diseased carotid artery or dislodge the atheroma.
What steps are involved in a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound procedure?
Before the Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
If you are taking any medications, inform your doctor before the procedure. On the testing day, refrain from wearing valuable jewelry such as necklaces or earrings that can interfere with the imaging test. Wear a button-down shirt or blouse with a wide neck for easy access to your neck.
During the Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
Ultrasound gel will be applied to your neck and your doctor will gently glide an ultrasound probe to capture images of your carotid arteries and check if there are constrictions, blockages, or abnormalities.
After the Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
Your doctor will explain the result and discuss a treatment plan with you. If there is an accumulation of plaque, baby aspirin or cholesterol-lowering drugs will be prescribed to impede the buildup and stabilize plaque, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
If significant abnormalities are detected, Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) may be ordered for detailed diagnosis.
A Note from MedPark’s Doctors
Carotid Doppler Ultrasound is a diagnostic study to locate the site of the blockage or narrowing of carotid arteries. It is painless and quick. If there are blockages, lifestyle modification is recommended. Though medical treatment is necessary, adopting a healthy lifestyle can effectively reduce the risk of stroke.
