Carotid Doppler

Understanding the Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler) Scan

A Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler) Scan is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries. These arteries, located on each side of the neck, are responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the brain.

Purpose and Benefits of a Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler) Scan

The primary purpose of this scan is to detect blockages or narrowing (stenosis) in the carotid arteries, which could lead to a stroke. The scan can also identify blood clots, tumours, or other abnormalities. The benefits of this procedure include its non-invasive nature, absence of radiation exposure, and its ability to provide real-time images of blood flow and vessel structure.

Conditions Detected by a Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler) Scan

This scan is useful for detecting conditions such as Carotid Artery Stenosis, blood clots, tumours, and other vascular abnormalities. It can also help assess the risk of stroke by identifying narrowed or blocked arteries.

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Scan Procedure

The Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler) Scan involves the use of a handheld device called a transducer, which is moved over the neck area to capture images of the carotid arteries. The scan shows the structure of the arteries and the flow of blood through them.

Preparation for the Scan

No special preparation is required for this scan. Patients are typically advised to wear comfortable clothing and may be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that could interfere with the scan.

What to Expect on the Day

The scanning procedure is painless and typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The patient lies on an examination table while a technician applies a gel to the neck area and moves the transducer over it to capture images.

After the Scan

There is no specific post-scan care required. The results are usually available within a few days and will be communicated by the healthcare provider.

Alternative Imaging Options

Other imaging options include CT angiography and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). The choice of imaging method depends on the patient's symptoms and the consultant's decision.

Additional Resources

For further information or support related to the Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler) Scan, patients can refer to the National Health Service (NHS) website or the British Society of Echocardiography.

References

1. R~~a~~diological Society of North America. Carotid Doppler Ultrasound - Report Standardization to Improve PQRS Measure Outcome. Available at: https://www.rsna.org/uploadedFiles/RSNA/Content/Science/Quality/Storyboards/2014/Browning-QSE121.pdf
2. UT Southwestern Department of Radiology. US Carotid Doppler. Available at: https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/education/medical-school/departments/radiology/protocols/assets/US%20Carotid%20Doppler.pdf
3. National Institutes of Health. Carotid Ultrasound. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/projects/gap/cgi-bin/GetPdf.cgi?id=phd001810.1
4. National Health Service. Ultrasound Scan. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ultrasound-scan/
5. British Society of Echocardiography. Carotid Doppler. Available at: https://www.bsecho.org/carotid-doppler/

• Radiological Society of North America. Carotid Doppler Ultrasound - Report Standardization to Improve PQRS Measure Outcome. Available at: https://www.rsna.org/uploadedFiles/RSNA/Content/Science/Quality/Storyboards/2014/Browning-QSE121.pdf
• UT Southwestern Department of Radiology. US Carotid Doppler. Available at: https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/education/medical-school/departments/radiology/protocols/assets/US%20Carotid%20Doppler.pdf
• National Institutes of Health. Carotid Ultrasound. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/projects/gap/cgi-bin/GetPdf.cgi?id=phd001810.1
• National Health Service. Ultrasound Scan. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ultrasound-scan/
• British Society of Echocardiography. Carotid Doppler. Available at: https://www.bsecho.org/carotid-doppler/