Carotid Duplex

This painless, noninvasive test is used to see and measure the rate at which blood
flows through your carotid arteries and look for possible blockages. No radiation, dye or needles
are used. The test may be performed in a vascular laboratory, a doctor’s office or a radiology
department.
REASONS
You may be given a carotid duplex test to determine whether plaque has accumulated in your
arteries, causing carotid artery disease (hardening of the arteries).
RISKS
This is a no-risk test.
Description
Wearing your street clothes, you will be asked to lie on a stretcher.
Ultrasound gel, usually warmed for your comfort, will be placed on either side of your neck.
Through the gel, the technician will apply to your neck a small hand-held device that emits sound
waves.
When the test is completed, the technician will remove excess gel from your neck. The gel is
water-soluble and will not stain your skin or clothes.
How to Prepare
Eat and take medications as usual.
Wear minimal or no jewelry, to ease application and removal of gel.
What Can I Expect After the Test?
The technician will send the ultrasound images to your vascular surgeon for evaluation. Typically,
a report is available in 2–3 days. If anything critical is found, it is standard practice at most
labs to notify the vascular surgeon immediately.
For more details, contact Dr.V.Balaji has best experience in Carotid Duplex Surgery at Apollo hospital, Chennai.