Carotid Sonogram

A carotid sonogram — also called a carotid duplex or carotid Doppler ultrasound — is a noninvasive, painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of your carotid arteries. The carotids on either side of your neck supply blood to your brain. The sonogram is usually performed to check for blood clots, blockages, or narrowing that could affect blood flow through your carotid arteries. 

UPMC experts provide advanced ultrasound imaging services using the latest technology to diagnose carotid artery conditions, including blockages or narrowing.

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What Is A Carotid Sonogram?

A carotid sonogram — also called a carotid duplex ultrasound — is a noninvasive, painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of your carotid arteries, the major arteries on either side of your neck that supply blood to your brain. It is usually performed to check for blood clots, blockages, or narrowing that could affect blood flow through your carotid arteries.

Conditions we diagnose with a carotid sonogram

• Blood clots in your carotid artery.
• Carotid artery stenosis or narrowing.

Why Would I Need A Carotid Sonogram?

A carotid sonogram will identify plaque, blood clots, or other problems inside your carotid arteries that may decrease blood flow to your brain.

Your doctor may recommend a carotid sonogram if:

• You have symptoms of stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA), such as blurred vision, trouble speaking, severe headaches, or numbness or tingling in your face, arms, or legs.
• You need follow-up care after a previous diagnosis of carotid artery disease, stroke, or TIA.
• Your doctor hears abnormal sounds after listening to blood flow through your carotid arteries with a stethoscope during a physical exam.

Is a carotid sonogram right for me?

Your doctor will let you know if a carotid sonogram is right for you based on your symptoms, family history, and other medical conditions.

What Are the Risks and Complications of a Carotid Sonogram?

There are no risks associated with a carotid sonogram. 

What Should I Expect From A Carotid Sonogram?

Before: How to prepare for a carotid sonogram

You may eat, drink, and take your medications as you usually do before your carotid sonogram. It is best not to wear clothes that fit tightly around your neck.

How long does a carotid sonogram take?

A carotid sonogram takes 15 to 30 minutes.

During your carotid sonogram

A carotid sonogram is a painless, noninvasive imaging test, so you will not need any type of anesthesia. The test does not use radiation. 

During the test, your care team will:

• Ask you to lie on an exam table.
• Apply warm gel to your neck to help sound waves enter and exit your body.
• Move a handheld probe called a transducer across your neck. The transducer sends sound waves into your body, which bounce off organs and other structures. The transducer receives these sound waves and transmits them to a computer, where they are turned into images of your carotid arteries and other structures.
• Take measurements based on the images seen on the computer screen. Your doctor will review these images, make a diagnosis, and recommend additional treatment if needed.

Recovery after a carotid sonogram

You can resume your normal activities immediately after your carotid sonogram.

What does a carotid ultrasound show?

A carotid ultrasound shows whether your carotid arteries are narrowed and how narrow they are. Having narrowed carotid arteries increases your risk for stroke.

A typical result means no blockage, narrowing, or other blood flow problems in your carotid arteries.

When to call your doctor about complications

You should not experience any complications after your carotid sonogram. However, if you have stroke symptoms, you should dial 911 right away.

Why Choose UPMC for Carotid Sonogram Care?

When you choose UPMC for carotid sonogram care, you will receive:

• Access to advanced imaging technology — Our experts use the latest imaging technology to quickly and accurately diagnose a full range of health conditions.
• Convenient imaging services — Imaging appointments are available at multiple locations with hours that fit your schedule.
• Multidisciplinary care — We partner with vascular surgeons and other medical experts to screen for and diagnose all types of carotid artery conditions.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-08-28.