Vascular Testing

Carotid Duplex

What is a Carotid Duplex?

The carotid duplex test uses imaging and ultrasound waves to look at and listen to the major blood vessels in the neck, the carotid arteries and their branches, leading to the brain. A visual image is taken of the arteries with no discomfort to the patient whatsoever. A clear gel is applied to the neck during the examination, so no turtlenecks or high neck shirts, scarves, etc. should be worn. The test is painless and the patient should allow 45-60 minutes for the study.

Transcranial Doppler (TCD)

What is a Transcranial Doppler (TCD) Test?

This test determines adequate/inadequate blood flow in the head from the carotid arteries and their branches as well as the vertebral arteries. Ultrasound is used and there is no discomfort to the patient. A clear gel will be applied to the temporal areas, eyelids and back and sides of the neck. Turtlenecks, high neck shirts, scarves, etc. should not be worn for this test. The patient should allow 45-60 minutes for the study.