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. Carotid ultrasound tests for blocked or narrowed
carotid arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke. The results can
help your doctor determine a treatment to lower your stroke risk.
What to Bring
- Your physician order (your physician may have already sent this to us)
- Personal ID
- Insurance Card
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 registration to completion of test.
Getting the Results
A radiologist (a doctor who is specially trained in reading and interpreting
diagnostic and ultrasound images) will interpret the ultrasound results
and send the information to your provider.