Locate a collection of clotted blood (hematoma) that may prevent blood flow.Evaluate the placement and effectiveness of a stent, a mesh tube used to improve blood flow through an artery.Evaluate blood flow through the artery after surgery to remove plaques (carotid endarterectomy).Your doctor may order a carotid ultrasound to: Your doctor may also order imaging tests to detect coronary artery disease. Results can indicate poor blood flow to the heart. This test shows how well your heart performs when under stress, such as during exercise. The test shows reduced or blocked blood flow to your legs. This test measures and compares the blood pressure between your ankle and your arm. You may have an abdominal ultrasound to test for conditions affecting the blood vessels or organs in your abdominal area. To screen for narrowed or blocked blood vessels in other areas of the body, you may need additional tests, including: Abnormal sound in carotid arteries (bruit), detected by your doctor using a stethoscope.Recent transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.Family history of stroke or heart disease.Your doctor will recommend carotid ultrasound if you have transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or certain types of stroke and may recommend a carotid ultrasound if you have medical conditions that increase the risk of stroke, including: Early diagnosis and treatment of a narrowed carotid artery can decrease stroke risk. It can occur in the carotid artery of the neck as well as other arteries.Ī carotid ultrasound is performed to test for narrowed carotid arteries, which increase the risk of stroke.Ĭarotid arteries are usually narrowed by a buildup of plaque - made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances that circulate in the bloodstream. A blood clot often forms in arteries damaged by the buildup of plaques (atherosclerosis). Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain.

Internal sonogram