Cartoid Duplex Ultrasound

Carotid duplex ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive procedure used in the diagnosis of stenosis, thrombosis, arterial occlusion and carotid occlusive disease.

Dignity Health Heart and Vascular Institute of Greater Sacramento provides exceptional diagnostics for our heart and vascular patients. Our cardiologists use the latest technology to ensure an accurate diagnosis so we can provide you with the best course of treatment available.

What Is Carotid Duplex Ultrasound?

Carotid duplex is a procedure that uses ultrasound to look for plaques, blood clots, or other blood flow problems in the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are located in the neck and supply blood to the brain.

The test combines traditional ultrasound with Doppler ultrasonography. Regular ultrasound uses sound waves that bounce off blood vessels to create pictures. Doppler ultrasound records sound waves reflecting off moving objects, such as blood, to measure how they flow.

What To Expect During A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound

  • The whole procedure usually takes 20-40 minutes. Here's what to expect:
  • You may be asked to wear a medical gown
  • You will lie down on a table
  • The ultrasound technician will spread a gel over the area being tested
  • A wand, called a transducer, is moved over the area being tested
  • You need to stay still during the exam
  • You may be asked to lie in different body positions or to take a deep breath and hold it
  • A computer measures how the sound waves reflect back and changes the sound waves into pictures
  • After the test your cardiologist will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up visit or over the phone.