What is a carotid duplex scan?

Ultrasound study: Carotid duplex is an ultrasound study to evaluate the carotid (and usually the vertebral) arteries (to the brain) for narrowing and blockage. Blood flow is measured using doppler ultrasound to define areas of stenosis (narrowing). It is an outpatient study with no preparation. You just need to lie quietly on a table while the probe is placed against your neck. The exam is totally painless.

US Eval Flow & Walls: Traditional carotid us focuses on blood flow velocities & an increase in velocity after an artery opening becomes narrowed from advanced plaque with ruptures & clots. Best to be sure artery walls are also closely examined, especially in the bifurcations/bulbs where plaque most frequent. Make sure you see the motion videos, during or after, & that wall thickness measured: healthy always < 0.08 cm.