CAROTID DOPPLER

What is Carotid Doppler?

• Ultrasound uses sound waves instead of radiation to generate moving and still images and the same principle of ultrasound used to see babies in the womb, allowing images to visualize the carotid arteries, the inner layer and the flow of blood. It can measure the speed of the blood flow through the arteries.

• To perform the test, a lubricant is applied to the skin to reduce friction between the skin and the transducer, which has the shape of a microphone. It moves over the patient's neck following the carotid arteries. During this time the transducer sends sound waves and receives the echoes and through a computerized process, images are generated and shown in the screen.

• Doppler ultrasound imaging shows blood flowing, through the carotid arteries, thus can detect a blockage in the arteries resulting from cholesterol plaque formation. It is also used to diagnose malformations, aneurysms or vascular tumors.

• The procedure takes between 15-30 minutes but can vary from patient to patient. The study is conducted by a specially trained physician. The procedure is painless, non-invasive, and has no side effects.

• No special preparation is required before the test. Fasting before or rest after the test are not necessary. The patient can go back to his/her daily activities.

• Upon completion of the examination the patient will be provided a detailed report with the results, so he/she can discuss the treatment with the doctor.

What patients need a Carotid Doppler?

All those patients who have suffered a transient ischemic stroke, cerebral ischemic situations and patients who are at risk of cerebral ischemic situations due to risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes.