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.