Carotid Color Doppler Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging test that is used to evaluate the blood flow in the carotid arteries, which are the main arteries that supply blood to the brain. During the exam, a...
Carotid Color Doppler Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging test that is used to evaluate the blood flow in the carotid arteries, which are the main arteries that supply blood to the brain. During the exam, a handheld device called a transducer is placed on the skin of the neck and moved over the carotid arteries. The probe sends high-frequency sound waves into the body, which bounce off the arteries and create echoes. These echoes are detected by the transducer and used to create images of the carotid arteries and the blood flow within them.
Color Doppler imaging is then used to evaluate the direction and speed of blood flow within the carotid arteries. This information can help to identify any narrowing or blockages in the arteries that can increase the risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). The exam can also detect the presence of plaques or other abnormalities in the arterial wall.
Carotid color Doppler ultrasound is commonly performed on patients who have symptoms of carotid artery disease, such as:
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking
- Vision changes
It is also performed on patients who have risk factors for carotid artery disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or smoking.
Overall, Carotid Colour Doppler ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive, and painless procedure that provides important information about the blood flow in the carotid arteries, which can help to identify and manage carotid artery disease and reduce the risk of stroke or TIA.
