A carotid ultrasound, also known as a VL Carotid Scan, is a non-invasive test that is used to determine if a patient has blockage or narrowing in the arteries in the neck (carotid arteries). Here is what you will experience:
PREPARATION: Please wear a loosely collared shirt. Turtle-necks and high collared shirts are discouraged.
PROCEDURE: A small amount of transmission gel is placed on the side of the neck. An Ultrasound probe is gently run up and down the neck through the gel. During this time, the sonographer or technologist will take pictures of the arteries, listen to and measure blood flow in the arteries and record these for the interpreting physician. From these pictures and measurements, a physician can determine the level of blockage or narrowing.
The exam will take approximately 60 minutes.