Carotid duplex

Alternative names:

scan - carotid duplex

How the test is performed:

The test is done in the peripheral vascular lab or radiology department of the hospital. You are placed on your back and your head will be supported to prevent movement. A water-soluble gel is placed on the skin where the transducer probe (a hand-held device that directs the high-frequency sound waves to the arteries being tested) is to be placed to help transmit the sound to the skin surface. The ultrasound is turned on and images of the carotid artery and pulse wave forms are obtained.

How to prepare for the test:

Adults:
No special preparation is necessary.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

The test is noninvasive and painless.

Why the test is performed:

The test assesses blood flow and is used to detect stenotic ("hardening"), thrombotic ("clots"), and occlusive diseases (in which the arteries are closed).