Carotid duplex scans are non-invasive diagnostic imaging tests used to assess the blood flow in the carotid arteries, which are major blood vessels located in the neck. These arteries supply oxygenated blood to the brain.
The primary purpose of a Carotid Duplex Scan is to detect and evaluate the presence of arterial disease in the carotid arteries. The scan assesses the speed and direction of blood flow in the carotid arteries, helping healthcare professionals identify any abnormalities that may compromise blood flow to the brain.
These scans can help detect conditions such as atherosclerosis, stenosis (narrowing of the arteries), or plaque buildup.
During the procedure, high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) are transmitted through a handheld device called a transducer. The duplex scan combines two types of ultrasound - Doppler and B-mode - to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the carotid arteries.
The Doppler effect detects the change in frequency of the ultrasound waves as they bounce off moving blood cells. On the other hand, B-mode imaging creates a real-time, two-dimensional image of the carotid arteries to help visualize the structure of the arteries and any potential abnormalities.