What is a carotid duplex scanning, and who would need to get it?

Ask your: Doctor if you need it. See radiologyinfo.Org and stroke.Org for good info.

Ultrasound + Doppler: Duplex means two, in this case: an ultrasound test ( brightness image) plus doppler test ( velocity check ) which both will evaluate the carotid artery for any potential blockage . People with strokes or mini strokes should get it to rule out significant disease above 50% that may require intervention.

Duplex scan: Doppler involves the use of reflected sound waves to evaluate the flow of blood in vessels. Vascular ultrasound evaluates the structure and architecture of blood vessels and can be used to visualize blockages in arteries and veins. Using these together is called a duplex scan and is what vascular labs all utilize for diagnosis. Anyone with CAD or with neurologic symptoms should get scanned.

Why ask here?: A web search will get you much more information than a HealthTap doc can fit into 400 characters and takes about 10 seconds. Start with http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/cardiovascular/carotid_artery_duplex_scan_92,P07661.