carotid doppler ultrasound normal values

Wear a comfortable shirt with no collar or an open collar.Call the day before the exam to confirm the time and location of the exam.You can take the following steps to prepare for your appointment: Construct a 3D model of the carotid artery to improve the accuracy of a diagnosis.Monitor carotid artery blood flow during aortic heart valve surgery to assess the risk of a stroke.Predict coronary artery disease by measuring the thickness of the carotid artery and evaluating the characteristics of a plaque.Detect other carotid artery problems that may disrupt blood flow.Locate a collection of clotted blood, also called a hematoma, that may prevent blood flow.Evaluate the placement and effectiveness of a stent, a mesh tube used to improve blood flow through an artery.The procedure to remove plaques is called carotid endarterectomy. Evaluate blood flow through the artery after surgery to remove plaques.Your doctor may order a carotid ultrasound to: Unusual sound in the carotid arteries (bruit) detected using a stethoscope.Recent transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.Family history of stroke or heart disease.Your provider also may recommend a carotid ultrasound if you have a medical condition that increases the risk of a stroke, including: Your health care provider orders a carotid ultrasound if you have a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also called a mini-stroke, or other types of strokes. Early diagnosis and treatment of a narrowed carotid artery can decrease stroke risk. It can occur in the carotid artery of the neck as well as other arteries.Ī carotid ultrasound is done to look for for narrowed carotid arteries, which increase the risk of stroke.Ĭarotid arteries are usually narrowed by a buildup of plaque - made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances that circulate in the bloodstream.

A blood clot often forms in arteries damaged by a buildup of plaques, known as atherosclerosis. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot, known as a thrombus, blocks or plugs an artery leading to the brain.

Carotid doppler ultrasound normal values