My doctor is sending me for a scan of my carotid artery he says this is just the normal procedure at my age which is 68. what will this test show and why is it given?

Carotid artery: If your doctor has not indicated to you that you have a carotid artery problem do not go for a scan until you have more information from the doctor.

Preventive measure: for avoiding future stroke. Yes at 68 you are at risk so your doctor is trying to find asymptomatic ( did not show symptoms yet ) carotid artery blockage or presence plaques that may dislodge and cause stroke. Do not worry is a simple non invasive procedure that will save your life .

Trends: Non-invasive screening for peripheral vascular disease, and extra cranial stenosis, is becoming common, and may well be routine, as part of health maintenance and prevention. These studies are non-invasive, and conducted utilizing ultra-sound techniques. If a block of carotid is noted, this can be handled often by medication, and less often by a fairly safe surgery, to prevent a stroke.

Carotid artery block: This test is a guideline to check the cholesterol plaque build up in arteries . this is the most superficial vessel that can be looked ,Silent blockage not restrictive disease can guide aggressive cholesterol management.

Evidence Based Test: 68 yo gentleman with a question about carotid artery duplex ultrasoundography. Joint recommendations of the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, The American Stroke Association, etc. published guidelines show Class I evidence that asymptomatic patients with known or suspected carotid stenosis get this test. It is unclear if asymptomatic patients with risk factors benefit.

Carotid: test will look at your carotid artery which is the blood supply to the brain the test will determine if you have placque atherosclerosis in the artery which could be a risk factor for stroke especially if you have hypertension