As you get older, plaque can build up in the carotid arteries limiting the blood supply to the brain causing a stroke. Carotid arteries provide the blood supply to the brain. A carotid artery scan is a form of vascular ultrasound performed to determine the blood flow of the arteries that supply blood from the heart through the neck to the brain.

If you are male or female, over 60, with a history of stroke or mini stroke, a carotid artery scan could be beneficial to you.

The Procedure

A carotid artery scan is most often performed as an outpatient or it may be included in a hospital stay. Typically, a carotid artery scan follows this process:

• You will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the scan.

• You will lie on an examination table with your neck slightly extended

• A clear gel will be placed on the skin at various locations on the carotid arteries.

• The doppler probe will be pressed against the skin and moved around over the area of the artery being studied.

• The probe will be moved around to compare blood flow in different areas of the artery. Both sides of the neck will be examined.

• Once the procedure has been completed, the gel will be wiped off.

A carotid artery scan is used to diagnose blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries of the neck and/or the branches of the carotid artery. Plaque build up, blood clots, and other substances in the blood stream may cause an interruption in the blood flow through the carotid arteries.

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