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Carotid Duplex Scan
The two carotid arteries are the main vessels that supply blood to the brain. They originate from the main arteries of the body (the aorta and brachiocephalic artery) in the chest and travel up through the neck and into the skull. Atherosclerosis of the right or left carotid artery is the most common cause of a stroke.
A carotid duplex scan is a technique to take a picture of these arteries using sound waves (ultrasound). A sound-wave transducer is placed gently on the neck. The walls and interior of the artery are visualised and the velocity of blood flow through the artery is measured. From this data, the presence and severity of narrowing due to atherosclerosis can be determined.
No patient preparation is required. No needles or injections are involved. The test generally takes about 30 minutes to perform. The cardiology team will refer you to the service if required.