Carotid Duplex

A simple test using ultrasound to evaluate the carotid arteries to determine if an individual has significant plaque which would increase the risk of stroke. Vascular ultrasound is also used in our office to evaluate the abdominal aorta to make sure there is no abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Preparation

• There is no preparation for this procedure.
• You may want to wear loose clothing for this procedure, especially at the neck. It is best not to wear turtlenecks or silk shirts (because of the gel that will be used).

How Is the Test Performed?

The vascular technologist will explain your exam and answer any questions you may have. Your procedure may be performed with you lying on the examination table or sitting in a chair.

The technologist will apply warm gel to your neck area. A transducer, a small, microphone-like device, will be placed over each side of your neck.

Sound waves will bounce off the organs and tissue in your body and the blood moving in your arteries. This creates "echoes." The echoes are reflected back to the transducer. A television monitor shows images as the transducer converts the echoes to electronic signals. These images may be viewed immediately, or photographed for further study.

Your exam will take approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

Is It Safe?

It is extremely safe. You will not feel any pain; however you will feel mild pressure from the transducer.