Doppler ultrasound of the supra-aortic trunks (carotid and vertebral arteries)
Neck vessel Doppler ultrasound in Casablanca
This ultrasound exam studies the neck arteries that supply the brain: the carotid and vertebral arteries. The ultrasound shows their walls and any plaques; Doppler measures the speed of the blood to detect a narrowing (stenosis). It is done with no X-rays and no injection. It is requested after a stroke, as well as to monitor the arteries of a person at risk. The arteries inside the skull are not examined: they require an MR angiogram or a CT angiogram.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Examining the carotid and vertebral arteries most often takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE & Hitachi
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- After a stroke or a temporary neurological problem.
- Whooshing sound (bruit) heard in the neck by the doctor.
- Monitoring of a known plaque or narrowing.
- Follow-up after carotid surgery or a carotid stent.
- Assessment of a person at risk: diabetes, smoking, cholesterol or high blood pressure.
- Dizziness or balance problems, when the doctor suspects a vascular cause.
How the exam is done
You lie on your back, without a pillow, and turn your head slightly to the opposite side. Your collar is opened and a little gel is applied to the side of your neck. The doctor slides the probe from the base of the neck up to just under the angle of the jaw, on one side and then the other.
The doctor follows the carotid artery up to the point where it divides, where plaques most often form, then looks for the vertebral artery, which is deeper, between the vertebrae. Doppler gives off sounds in rhythm with the heartbeat. Stay relaxed and avoid talking. When the exam is over, you wipe off the gel and leave with no restrictions.
Preparation
- Keep your neck clear: no turtleneck, necklaces removed.
- Take your usual treatments, including aspirin and anticoagulants.
- An open shirt or a low neckline makes it easier to reach the neck.
Fasting
No need to fast for a neck Doppler ultrasound. Eat and drink normally.
Contrast injection
Nothing is injected into the veins.
Contraindications and precautions
- Ultrasound has no known contraindication.
- Weakness on one side, speech problems or sudden loss of vision: call emergency services immediately.
- Recent carotid surgery or stent: tell us and give the date.
- Significant neck pain or stiffness: tell us, and the doctor will limit head rotation.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from your doctor or neurologist
- Previous Doppler ultrasounds, CT angiograms or MR angiograms
- List of your medications
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What is a carotid plaque?
A deposit of fat and calcium in the artery wall (atheroma). The radiologist describes its size and the narrowing it causes.
Should I stop my aspirin?
No. This treatment does not interfere with the exam and must never be stopped without your doctor's advice.
Can another exam follow?
If a significant narrowing is seen, a CT angiogram or an MR angiogram may be requested to clarify the anatomy, especially before a procedure.
Why examine both sides?
The right and left carotid and vertebral arteries are compared: abnormal flow on one side can be explained by an obstruction located elsewhere.
Is the exam painful?
No. The probe simply glides over the skin with a little gel; only keeping your head turned for a long time may become a little uncomfortable.
Does this exam need to be repeated regularly?
If a plaque or a narrowing is known, your doctor may plan check-ups to follow how it changes. How often depends on the severity of the lesion.