A complete guide to your carotid artery ultrasound — the scan that evaluates your stroke risk by imaging the arteries supplying blood to your brain.
Follow these steps to ensure the best possible imaging and a smooth appointment.
No fasting, no medication changes, no special diet. Simply show up for your appointment.
Choose a shirt with a low neckline or an open collar to allow easy access to your neck. Avoid turtlenecks or high-necked garments.
Remove necklaces and any neck jewelry before your appointment. Earrings do not need to be removed.
Continue all your regular medications on their usual schedule before the scan.
Both carotid arteries will be examined. The full scan typically takes 40–50 minutes including setup.
No sedation involved. You will be fully alert and able to drive before and after the appointment.
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.
No referral needed. $397 all-inclusive. Results from a board-certified cardiologist within 24–48 hours.