Carotid Artery Ultrasound Screening

Patients Age 50+

Asymptomatic narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries affects 5-10% of patients aged 50-65, and is an important risk factor for stroke. The accuracy of carotid colour flow Doppler ultrasound in detecting such narrowings is 93%. This painless screening test provides images of the carotid arteries on both sides of your neck and measures the velocity of the blood flow through these vessels. Carotid ultrasound compliments CT calcium scoring of the heart by looking at another area of possible atherosclerotic disease, and providing a risk assessment for stroke.