Carotid Artery Duplex Ultrasound

A carotid duplex ultrasound is used to evaluate whether there is any narrowing or blockage in the carotid arteries. Patients with uncontrolled cholesterol may have this test to ensure there is no cholesterol build up in these vessels. In addition, patients who are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, memory loss, vision distortion, or strokes have this test performed as well. Dizziness and darkened vision can occur with blockage in the carotid arteries because less blood flow reaches the brain. During the test, a vascular technician will place an echocardiogram probe on your neck to view images of your carotid arteries non-invasively.