Carotid arteries deliver blood from the heart to the brain. A Carotid Doppler is a safe, painless, non-invasive test using ultrasound to examine the carotid arteries which are located on each side of the neck. Blood flow of the arteries is assessed for any potential blockage or narrowing. This test is used to determine treatment for post-stroke patients as well as detect stroke risk.

A trained and certified ultrasound technician conducts the test with a small ultrasound device. You will be asked to sit in a chair and a conductive gel will be applied to neck. Using a small ultrasound device called a transducer, the technician will gently press and move against your neck to obtain images of the blood flow through your arteries.

Discomfort should not be felt during the procedure, which typically lasts about 15 minutes. If you do experience any pain or discomfort, please inform the technician.

Once the test is completed the technician will provide you with towels to wipe off any remaining gel.

The data recorded is sent to a neurologist for interpretation. Results will be available one week after the test is completed and will be reviewed at your next follow up visit. If there is an abnormality seen on your test you will be informed prior to your next appointment.