CAROTID DOPPLER

A Carotid Doppler is a test that does not require any cuts to the skin (non-invasive) and uses ultrasound to assess the level of blood circulation into the brain from the carotid arteries. This ultrasound imaging test helps to assess, diagnose and track diseases concerning stenosis, plaque formation and even thrombus within the carotid arteries.  

What is Carotid Doppler? 

Ultrasound imaging uses high frequency sound waves to measure the distance, and the speed blood is traveling through the carotid arteries. The test is based on the Doppler effect where it gets its name from. The effect states that a wave's frequency changes for a person who’s moving relative to the source of the waves. In this case red blood cells being the moving organs. In this case the doctor can measure the changes that occur as a result of blood vessels ascertaining blood flow and diagnose obstruction or other forms of abnormalities. 

Types of Carotid Doppler 

There are two main types of Carotid Doppler tests: 

• Standard Carotid Doppler: This type of Carotid Doppler evaluates blood flow through the carotid arteries. 

• Transcranial Doppler: This type evaluates blood flow through the brain's vasculature. 

List of Parameters Considered During the Carotid Doppler

Medical specialists search for the following during the test:  

• How quick the blood flows. 

• The direction the blood is flowing. 

• If there is any stenosis (narrowing) or occlusion (blockage) 

• Presence of plaque 

• Clots in the blood 

Some modifications might be required depending on the patient's age, existing medical problems, or past surgical history. 

Reasons for Taking a Carotid Doppler

A Carotid Doppler scan is performed for the following reasons:  

• To diagnose carotid artery disease 

• To assess the severity of carotid artery disease and its progression over time 

• To evaluate the results and side effects of treatments 

• To check stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) risk factors 

• To measure cerebral blood perfusion before surgery 

When and Who Needs to Take a Carotid Doppler? 

A doctor might recommend a Carotid Doppler test if you have symptoms like: 

• Weakness or numbness in your limbs or face. 

• Difficulty swallowing or talking. 

• Loss of balance or dizziness. 

• Sudden and intense headache. 

• High levels of cholesterol. 

• Hypertension. 

• Family history of stroke or atherosclerosis. 

Patients over the age of 50 or individuals at high risk for cardiac disease usually need this test. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

The benefits of Carotid Doppler include: 

• It is painless and does not require any surgical incision 

• Non-invasive procedures can be performed in a short time period 

• Reported information is precise and elaborate concerning blood circulation 

• Useful in identifying and tracking the health issues of the carotid arteries 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Carotid Doppler

Carotid Doppler is frequently used to diagnose the following disorders: 

• Carotid artery stenosis 

• Carotid artery occlusion 

• Atherosclerosis 

• Thrombus 

• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) 

Preparing for Carotid Doppler

In preparation for the exam, patients should:  

• Dress in flexible fit and comfortable clothes 

• Refrain from smoking and caffeine intake 2 hours prior to the exam 

• Refrain from eating a large meal prior to the exam 

Pre-requisites 

In regard to pre-requisites, there are no set requirements in done prior steps but telling your doctor regarding current medication use, especially if it’s a blood thinner, is crucial. 

Best Time to Take the Carotid Doppler 

This test can be performed anytime but it is typically done at a time most convenient for the patient. 

Eligibility 

Most patients qualify for the Carotid Doppler test and the exceptions may be: 

• Patients experiencing severe neck pain with some degree of immobility.  

• Patients having types of medical devices like pacemakers.  

Procedure for Taking a Carotid Doppler 

The length of the test is approximately thirty to sixty minutes, and it is usually done in the steps given below: 

1. The patient is positioned on their back on an examination table with the neck placed over a pillow.  
2. A clear gel is placed over the carotid arteries by a technician.  
3. An ultrasound probe is placed over the skin and moved on the neck’s surface to take photographs of the carotid arteries region.  
4. The patient is requested to hold their breath or change their body position periodically during the test.  
5. The measurements of the blood flow velocity are taken along with analysing the produced images. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients should tell their doctors about: 

• Any current medication they are undergoing.  

• Any implants in the body, more specifically pacemakers.  

• Any recent surgical or injurious interventions on the neck of the patient.