Need to Know
- There are no dietary restrictions for carotid ultrasounds
- It is very important not to talk during the examination in order for the sonographer to obtain proper images for the radiologist to interpret
Nice to Know
- The exam is painless, non-invasive, and there are no known side effects
- Our experienced and caring sonographers who will be performing your exam are specifically accredited in Ultrasound, and have been trained on our state of the art equipment
- The exam may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 60 minutes
Ultrasound: What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is This Exam Done?
Carotid ultrasounds can be used to prevent strokes by detecting narrowing carotid arteries. Carotid ultrasounds are used to discover blood clots and detect blood flow obstructions. It can be used post-operatively to verify metal stents are correctly in place.
How Does it Work?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the body’s tissues, structures, and blood flow. A transducer/probe and ultrasound gel work in combination to absorb the reflected sound waves to produce images on the monitor
What Will Happen During the Exam?
The sonographer will request that you lay quietly during the test to help ensure that the images are clear. Warm, water-based gel will be applied to the ultrasound transducer or directly on the skin. The sonographer will then move the transducer around on the area to obtain clear images of the underlying structures and blood vessels for the physician to interpret.
How Should I Prepare?
Before the test is administered, you may be asked to change into a gown.
What Are the Benefits and Risks?
The benefits of Carotid Ultrasound:
- If narrowing of carotid arteries is detected early enough, action may be taken to prevent a stroke
- Ultrasound images are shown in real-time as they happen
- The structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels are able to be seen and recorded
- The exam is painless and non-invasive
- No ionizing radiation is used for this procedure
Risks you should be aware of:
- There are no known risks for ultrasound
Locations
Farmington
399 Farmington AvenueFarmington, CT 06032
Monday - Friday: 7:30am-5:00pm
Evening and Saturday appointments available for MRI
Hours vary by exam
Interventional Radiology860-676-0110
Vein Center860-293-7330
More Information