A Carotid Ultrasound is a safe, painless, and non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate the carotid arteries—the major blood vessels in the neck that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. This exam assesses blood flow and detects any narrowing (stenosis) or blockages caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), which can significantly increase the risk of stroke.

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What Does the Carotid Ultrasound Evaluate ?

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• Presence, location, and severity of carotid artery stenosis

• Characteristics of atherosclerotic plaque (e.g., soft, calcified, or ulcerated)

• Blood flow velocity and direction through the carotid arteries

• Risk stratification for stroke in patients with risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, or prior transient ischemic attack [TIA])

• Monitoring of known carotid disease or post-procedure follow-up (e.g., after carotid endarterectomy or stenting)

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Benefits of Carotid Ultrasound

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• No radiation or contrast agents – completely safe and repeatable

• Early detection of vascular disease before symptoms appear

• Guides preventive care: helps determine if medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical intervention are needed

• Quick and comfortable: typically completed in 15–30 minutes with no downtime

 

Carotid ultrasound is a cornerstone of stroke prevention and is recommended by guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Stroke Association for at-risk individuals or those with neurological symptoms such as transient vision loss, weakness, or speech disturbances.