Carotid artery ultrasound screening plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing vascular health conditions. If your doctor has recommended it, you might have questions about what the test is and what its results mean.
Understanding the reports and their implications can help you make informed decisions about your health.
Let us discuss the basics of carotid artery ultrasound screening, what the results may indicate, and the potential next steps you might consider with your healthcare provider.
What Is Carotid Artery Ultrasound Screening
Carotid artery ultrasound screening is a non-invasive test used to examine blood flow through the carotid arteries. These arteries, located on both sides of your neck, are vital as they carry blood to your brain. Blockages or narrowing of these arteries can increase your risk of conditions like stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
By using sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries and measure blood flow, this test helps identify potential abnormalities, such as plaque buildup or stenosis (narrowing of the arteries).
The test itself is safe, painless, and typically performed in a doctor’s office or diagnostic center.
Why Is Carotid Artery Ultrasound Screening Important
Your doctor may suggest carotid artery ultrasound screening if you have risk factors for vascular disease or show symptoms of reduced blood flow to the brain. The primary benefits of this test include:
- Early detection of plaque buildup, which can reduce the risk of stroke.
- Monitoring the progress of diagnosed carotid artery disease.
- Information to guide treatment plans like lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions.
This early detection can empower you to reduce risks and improve your overall health.
How the Carotid Artery Ultrasound Screening Works
During a carotid artery ultrasound screening, a technician uses a handheld device called a transducer. A gel is applied to your neck to help the transducer send and receive sound waves. These sound waves bounce off tissues in your neck, creating detailed images of your carotid arteries. The entire carotid artery ultrasound screening test typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
The procedure is safe, with no need for needles, dyes, or radiation.
What Will the Results Tell Me
After completing your carotid artery ultrasound, your healthcare provider will share results that typically show if your carotid arteries are clear, partially blocked, or severely obstructed.
Here is what the different results may mean for you.
Normal Results
If your results are normal, it means your carotid arteries are not blocked or narrowed. This is an indication that blood is flowing freely to your brain.
Abnormal Results
The abnormal results are categorized into the following:
Mild to Moderate Blockage (Less Than 50%)
Blockages under 50% are generally categorized as mild to moderate. Your provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting tobacco products to reduce your risk.
Additionally, medications may be prescribed to:
- Dissolve blood clots (e.g., thrombolytics)
- Prevent new blood clots (e.g., aspirin or clopidogrel)
- Lower cholesterol (e.g., statins)
- Reduce high blood pressure (e.g., antihypertensives)
Severe Blockage (50% or More)
Severe plaque buildup, especially when paired with stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) symptoms, may require surgical or interventional procedures, such as:
- Carotid Endarterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove plaque from the artery and restore normal blood flow.
- Angioplasty With Stenting: A minimally invasive procedure where a stent is inserted to keep the artery open after plaque is pushed aside.
If your doctor recommends surgery or further tests, the carotid artery ultrasound results will guide the approach to treatment.
Limitations of the Test
While carotid artery ultrasound screening is highly effective, it does have limitations. Sometimes, it may falsely indicate blockages, especially when underlying structures, like bone, obscure clear imaging. If this happens, your doctor might suggest additional imaging tests, such as:
- Cerebral angiography
- CT angiography
- Magnetic resonance angiography
Carotid Artery Ultrasound Screening in Irmo, SC
Carotid artery ultrasound screening is a powerful tool for preventing serious vascular conditions like strokes. Understanding your results and working closely with your doctor can put you on the path to better health.
At SC Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation, we provide comprehensive diagnostic services to assess your cardiovascular risks. Whether it is answering your questions or providing world-class care, our mission is to keep you at your healthiest.
Call (803) 749-1111 or use our secure appointment request form to schedule your consultation. We look forward to serving you!
