Dr. Thomas Wool, Dr. Sergio Perez Beracasa, and Darbi Stevens, CRNP to join MCA

Carotid Ultrasound

WHAT IS A CAROTID ULTRASOUND?

Carotid Ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through the carotid arteries.

Your two carotid arteries are located on each side of your neck. They deliver blood from your heart to your brain.

Carotid Ultrasound tests for blocked or arrowed arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke. The results can help your doctor determine a treatment to lower your stroke risk.

Carotid Ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through the carotid arteries.

HOW DOES A CAROTID ULTRASOUND WORK?

A technician (sonographer) conducts the test with a small, hand-held device called a transducer. The transducer emits sound waves and records the waves as they bounce off tissues, organs and blood cells.

The computer translates the sound waves into a live-action image on a monitor. 

You will lie on your back during the ultrasound. The ultrasound technician (sonographer) may position your head to better access the side of your neck.

The sonographer will apply gel to your skin above the site of each carotid artery. The gel helps transmit the ultrasound waves. The sonographer then gently presses the transducer against the side of your neck. 

You shouldn’t feel any discomfort during the procedure.  The procedure will take approximately 20-45 minutes to complete.