A complete guide to your carotid artery ultrasound — the scan that evaluates your stroke risk by imaging the arteries supplying blood to your brain.
Many patients have never had this type of scan before. Here is exactly what will happen — no surprises.
Completely painless and non-invasive. Ultrasound uses sound waves — no radiation, no needles, no discomfort. Most patients find the experience relaxing.
You will lie on your back on an exam table with a small pillow or towel under your neck to gently extend it.
A small amount of clear gel is applied to each side of your neck — the same type used in obstetric ultrasounds. It feels cool initially.
The sonographer places a small probe on the right side of your neck and systematically images the artery from the base of the neck to the jaw.
The same process is repeated on the left side. You may be asked to turn your head slightly to improve image quality.
Color and spectral Doppler record blood flow velocities at multiple points. You will hear the characteristic whooshing sound — this is normal.
A cardiologist reviews your images and delivers a plain-language report covering plaque findings, stenosis grading, and clinical recommendations.
Your cardiologist report is written in plain language, but here are the specific measurements and terms you may encounter — and exactly what they mean.
The degree of narrowing at each measured point. Under 50% is mild; 50–69% is moderate; 70% or greater is severe and typically warrants specialist referral.
Whether plaque is present and its composition — soft or calcified. Soft plaque carries higher near-term stroke risk than calcified plaque.
A measurement of artery wall thickness. Increased thickness is an early marker of atherosclerosis that predates visible plaque.
The maximum blood flow speed at each point. Elevated velocities indicate narrowing at that location.
Flow speed between heartbeats. Used together with peak velocity to calculate stenosis severity.
A ratio comparing velocities in different segments of the artery — a key diagnostic criterion for severe stenosis.
Your report will clearly state whether follow-up is needed and how urgently. Here is what each outcome typically means.
No significant abnormalities. Share your report with your primary care physician. Consider repeat screening in 1–3 years based on your risk profile.
Minor findings that warrant monitoring. Your report will specify follow-up timing and any lifestyle recommendations.
Clinically significant findings requiring physician review. Your report will indicate appropriate urgency.
Findings requiring prompt evaluation. We will contact you directly in addition to delivering your report.
A carotid ultrasound requires minimal preparation. Here is what to know before your appointment.
Explore our clinical service page, related articles, and booking options for your carotid screening.
No fasting is required for a carotid ultrasound. Wear a top with a low neckline or open collar for easy access to your neck. Avoid wearing necklaces or scarves. Continue all medications as prescribed. The scan takes approximately 30–45 minutes and is completely painless.
A board-certified cardiologist reviews your carotid images and delivers a written report within 24–48 hours via secure email. The report covers stenosis grading, plaque characterization, intima-media thickness, and clinical recommendations.
BlackPoint Diagnostics is a direct-pay service at $397 per scan, all-inclusive. No insurance pre-authorization or referral is required. HSA and FSA payments are accepted.
Yes. A carotid ultrasound is completely non-invasive with no sedation, needles, or contrast dye. You can drive, return to work, and resume all activities immediately after the scan.
Your cardiologist report will grade the degree of narrowing at each measured point and characterize any plaque found. Mild stenosis (under 50%) typically requires monitoring and lifestyle management. Moderate to severe stenosis may warrant specialist referral. For significant findings, our team contacts you directly.
No referral needed. $397 all-inclusive. Results from a board-certified cardiologist within 24–48 hours.