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Alternative names Return to top
Scan - carotid duplex, Carotid ultrasoundDefinition Return to top
Carotid duplex is a procedure that uses ultrasound to look for plaques, blood clots, or other problems with blood flow in the carotid artery walls and lumen (interior). The carotid arteries, located in the neck, supply blood to the brain.
How the test is performed Return to top
The test is done in the peripheral vascular lab or radiology department of a hospital. You are placed on your back and your head will be supported to prevent movement.
A water-soluble gel is placed on the skin where the transducer (a handheld device that directs the high-frequency sound waves to the arteries being tested) is to be placed. The gel helps transmit the sound to the skin surface. The ultrasound is turned on and images of the carotid arteries and pulse wave forms are obtained.
How to prepare for the test Return to top
No special preparation is necessary.
For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
How the test will feel Return to top
The test is noninvasive and painless.Why the test is performed Return to top
The test assesses blood flow and is used to detect the conditions involving stenosis (narrowing and hardening), thrombosis (clotting), and other causes of obstruction in the carotid arteries.
Normal Values Return to top
The artery is free of any obstructions, stenosis, or thrombosis, and there is no flow abnormality. There is no turbulence or disruption in the arterial blood flow.What abnormal results mean Return to top
There is a disturbance of the blood flow in the artery related to stenotic, obstructive, or thrombotic diseases (for example, atherosclerosis).What the risks are Return to top
There are no specific risks related to this procedure. Update Date: 7/21/2004 Updated by: Jeffrey J. Brown, MD, FACR, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |