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Carotid Doppler
This is an abbreviated version of the complete article.*
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| Basic Facts |
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Ultrasound is a painless, noninvasive, radiation-free diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to make images of body tissues. |
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Carotid Doppler ultrasound allows doctors to measure the speed of blood flow and to see images of the blood vessels. |
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Physicians use carotid Doppler to evaluate a person's risk for stroke. |
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Carotid Doppler is a safe, noninvasive ultrasound test for carotid artery disease, a major cause of stroke. Physicians use carotid Doppler to check or monitor blood flow in the vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. Carotid Doppler works by directing ultrasound waves (high-frequency sound waves that people cannot hear) at the carotid arteries to calculate the speed of blood flow through the blood vessel. Doppler ultrasound produces two-dimensional color images, which help the physician determine whether blood flow has been affected by narrowed blood vessels, blood clots, or other obstructions.
PRE-PROCEDURE GUIDELINES
There is no need for any special preparation for carotid Doppler. It is best to avoid smoking cigarettes, as nicotine can cause the arteries to constrict (shrink) and affect results.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Most carotid Doppler tests are performed by a specially trained ultrasound technologist in an ultrasound lab, which is usually at the physician's office or a hospital.
The person being tested will lie down face-up with his or her head slightly elevated. The technician will request that the person remain still during the test to help ensure that the images are clear. The technician will then apply a special gel directly on the skin above the area to be examined. This gel improves the contact between the skin and the transducer to increase sound wave conduction and reception because ultrasound does not travel well through air. The technician will then press the transducer against the person's skin and may move the transducer back and forth to get clear images of the underlying blood vessels and structures. The patient may be asked to hold his or her breath on occasion.
People may hear a whooshing sound timed with their heartbeat. This is simply the echocardiogram machine's translation of the sound of blood in motion.
The test can take 15 to 30 minutes to complete.
POST-PROCEDURE GUIDELINES
Following a carotid Doppler scan, patients can resume normal activities.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Ultrasound carries no known risks and can be repeated as often as is necessary.
Medical Review Date: December 7, 2009
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