What is it?
This painless, noninvasive test is used to see and measure the rate at which blood flows through your carotid arteries and look for possible blockages. No radiation, dye or needles are used. You may be given a carotid duplex test to determine whether plaque has accumulated in your arteries, causing carotid artery disease (hardening of the arteries). The test may be performed in a vascular laboratory, a doctor’s office or a radiology department.
What to expect during the test?
• You will wear your street clothes, and be asked to lie on a stretcher.
• Ultrasound gel, usually warmed for your comfort, will be placed on either side of your neck.
• Through the gel, the technician will apply to your neck a small hand-held device that emits sound waves.
• When the test is completed, the technician will remove excess gel from your neck. The gel is water-soluble and will not stain your skin or clothes.
Are there any risks or side effects?
This is a no-risk test.
What should I do to prepare?
• Eat and take medications as usual.
• Wear minimal or no jewelry to ease application and removal of gel.
What can I expect after the test?
The technician will send the ultrasound images to your vascular surgeon for evaluation. Typically, a report is available in 2–3 days. If anything critical is found, it is standard practice at most labs to notify the vascular surgeon immediately.
The information contained on www.ntxvascular.com is sourced from the Society for Vascular Surgery at www.vascular.org. It is purely informational, and is not intended, nor should it be relied upon, as a substitute for the advice or treatment of a trained medical professional. Individuals with specific medical problems or questions must consult with their doctor or other health care professional.