OVERVIEW: 

A Carotid Doppler uses ultrasound to create a picture of your neck blood vessels. The recorded waves show the shape, texture and movement of your blood vessels, checking for abnormalities, plaque build-up or blockages of the vessels. A carotid ultrasound may be done to assess a variety of symptoms or conditions listed.

How should I prepare for my Carotid Ultrasound?

  • Please arrive 10 minutes early for your appointment with your provincial health care card and ID such as your driver’s licence or social insurance card.

  • Do not wear creams or lotions on your neck.

  • You may eat and drink normally.
     

Why do I need a carotid ultrasound?

A carotid ultrasound may be done to assess a variety of conditions, such as:

  • Symptoms of stroke

  • Symptoms of transient ischemic attack (TIA)

  • Carotid or cervical bruit – an abnormal sound heard by your doctor

  • Follow-up of known carotid artery blockages/surgery

  • Pulsatile neck mass

  • Fainting episodes

  • Preoperative evaluation before major surgical procedures

  • Amaurosis fugax

  • Assessment of your cardiovascular risk

It may also be recommended if you are experiencing:

  • dizziness

  • shortness of breath

  • palpitations

  • angina (chest pain) or if you have a history of stroke
     

What happens during my carotid ultrasound?

  • The exam takes between 10-15 minutes to complete. It is painless and safe.

  • You lie on a padded exam table (on your back, rotating your neck slightly from side to side) and a sonographer will apply warm gel to the side of your neck, both sides. 

  • The sonographer uses a special wand called a transducer across your neck to take images of your neck blood vessels. You may occasionally hear noises which is the “Doppler” effect - this helps measure blood flow. 

  • A cardiologist/internist at Vita Diagnostics will review the images obtained during your ultrasound and your results will be communicated to your referring doctor.