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Vascular Laboratory
About the Vascular Laboratory
down1a Vascular Testing
Arterial Evaluations
Carotid Duplex Examination
Venous Doppler Examination
Vascular Testing FAQs
Learn About Conditions and Procedures
Carotid Duplex Examination
What is it?
A Carotid Duplex Examination is an ultrasound test of the carotid arteries in the neck that lead to the brain. This study is used to detect a blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries which may cause a stroke.

What can I expect during the examination?
The Carotid Duplex Examination takes about 30 minutes. There are no special preparations. You should where a loose fitting shirt or blouse that does not have a high neck. You will lie on an exam table in a darkened room while the technologist performs the exam.

Your doctor will receive the test results in approximately 2 working days.

What kind of symptoms might I experience if there were a blockage in my carotid arteries?
There are several signs and symptoms that you may experience such as:
  • Carotid bruit (a noise or murmur heard in the neck when your doctor listens to your neck with a stethoscope)
  • Loss of balance
  • Vertigo (dizziness)
  • Aphasia (inability to speak)
  • Numbness or weakness on one side of your body
  • Amaurosis Fugax (transient blindness in one eye)
  • Syncope (fainting)

 


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