Carotid Ultrasound

Carotid ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through the carotid arteries. Your two carotid arteries are located on each side of your neck. They deliver blood from your heart to your brain. A carotid ultrasound tests for blocked or narrowed carotid arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke. The results can help your medical provider determine a treatment to lower your stroke risk.

What to Bring

• Your medical provider order (Your provider may have already sent this to us.)
• Personal ID
• Insurance card(s)

How to Prepare

• You do not have to do anything special to prepare for a carotid ultrasound.
• Wear a comfortable shirt with no collar or an open collar.
• Don't wear a necklace or dangling earrings.

What to Expect

• The room is usually dark so the images can be seen clearly on the computer screen.
• You'll likely lie on your back during the ultrasound. The ultrasound technologist (sonographer) may position your head to better access the side of your neck.
• The sonographer will apply a warm gel to your skin above the site of each carotid artery. The gel helps transmit the ultrasound waves back and forth. The sonographer then gently presses the transducer against the side of your neck.
• You shouldn't feel any discomfort during the procedure. If you do, tell the sonographer.
• Please allow 45 minutes from the time you check in to your appointment to the completion of the test.

Getting the Results

A radiologist (a medical provider who is specially trained in reading and interpreting diagnostic and ultrasound images) will interpret the ultrasound results and send the information to your provider.

Schedule an Appointment

Call North Oaks Scheduling between 7 am and 5:30 pm.
Hammond: (985) 230-7777
Livingston: (225) 686-4899

If you are a medical provider and need to send an order, please fax it to (985) 230-6781.