Ultrasound of the Carotid Artery

How Long Will it Take?

• The examination typically takes about half an hour.

How Does the Procedure Work?

• You will be asked to lie still on an examination table.
• Because the sound waves are unable to travel through the air, the technologist will apply a lubricating gel which will press the air pockets away from the skin and allow sound waves to penetrate the surface.
• The technologist will then press the transducer firmly against the skin to obtain the images.
• The technologist will watch the images on the computer monitor as the scan is being performed. You will often be able to see the images as well.
• Normally painless, there may be some discomfort from the pressure of the transducer, especially if you have a full bladder.

After the Procedure

• The radiologist will report the results to your physician.
• There is no recovery time necessary.