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Carotid Duplex
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What is a Carotid Duplex Ultrasound?

Examination of the major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain, including both the anterior circulation (Carotid Artery) and the posterior circulation (Vertebral Artery & Basilar Artery), using high-frequency ultrasound. This can assess both the structure and blood flow characteristics within the vessels, as well as evaluate risk that may lead to future vascular narrowing (stenosis).

Symptoms suspected to indicate possible narrowing (stenosis) of blood vessels

  • Carotid bruit detected in the neck during a physical examination by a physician
  • A mass in the neck that moves with the pulse is detected
  • Temporary loss of vision
  • Ischemic stroke due to cerebral artery stenosis/occlusion
  • Transient ischemic attack
  • Follow-up monitoring for cerebral blood vessel stenosis/occlusion and after neck vascular surgery
  • Dizziness with unsteady, staggering gait

Who should be screened

  1. All stroke patients
  2. Patients in whom a carotid bruit is detected or a pulsatile neck mass is found
  3. Patients with stenosis/occlusion of the arteries supplying the brain, both those who have undergone surgery and those who have not
  4. People with risk factors for stroke
  • Hypertension
  • High blood cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Family history of stroke
  1. Coronary artery disease (CAD) patient
  2. Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) patient
  3. Aortic aneurysm patient

Examination method

This test uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to examine the neck area while you are lying on your back or sitting. No special preparation is required. After the examination, you can resume your normal daily activities as usual.

For more information

Brain Center, Samitivej Sriracha Hospital

1st floor, Building C
Tel. 038-320-300 ext. 4183, 4184

01 March 2020

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