A carotid ultrasound is done to evaluate the degree of blockage in the neck
artery, or other problems such as an aneurysm. The carotid arteries originate from the aorta and are the main pathway
for blood supply to the brain. They are located on both sides of the neck. Cholesterol may build up in these arteries
and decrease blood flow, which may cause a TIA or stroke. Sometime the blockage can be heard by your physician listening to the neck with a stethoscope.
Typically, carotid ultrasound allows imaging of the common carotid, external
and internal carotid arteries. Carotid ultrasound allows visualization
of disease changes in the artery wall and abnormal narrowing (stenosis) of these arteries. Any narrowing will need
some medical treatment such as cholesterol lowering therapy. Blockages of more than 80% in patients without symptoms
or more than 50% in patients with symptoms may need to be treated with surgery or stenting.
