Carotid Ultrasound

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Carotid ultrasound — also called carotid duplex — is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to check for blockages or narrowing that may reduce blood flow through the carotid arteries. Your carotid arteries are located on either side of your neck and supply blood to your brain. If they become blocked or narrowed, it can increase your risk of stroke.

UPMC experts accurately diagnose and treat carotid artery disease and stroke with the most effective and least invasive techniques, providing the care you need when every second matters.

What Is a Carotid Ultrasound?

A carotid ultrasound — also called a carotid duplex — is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to detect blockages or narrowing that reduce blood flow through the carotid arteries. Your carotid arteries are on either side of your neck and supply blood to your brain. If they become blocked or narrowed, it can increase your risk of stroke.

Types of carotid ultrasound

There are two types of carotid ultrasound, including:

• Conventional ultrasound — Shows the structure of your carotid arteries.
• Doppler ultrasound — Shows blood flow through your carotid arteries.

Conditions we diagnose with carotid ultrasound

• Atherosclerosis.
• Carotid artery dissection.
• Carotid artery stenosis.
• Stroke.
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA), also called mini-stroke.

Why Would I Need a Carotid Ultrasound?

You may need a carotid ultrasound if your doctor suspects your carotid artery is blocked or narrowed. You may also need one if you are having stroke or TIA symptoms.

What are the symptoms of blocked carotid arteries?

Blocked or narrowed carotid arteries may cause stroke or TIA symptoms, including:

• Chest pain.
• Confusion.
• Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or understanding speech.
• Difficulty walking.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Lightheadedness.
• Loss of balance.
• Memory problems.
• Neck pain, stiffness, or tenderness.
• Ringing in your ears (tinnitus).
• Severe headache. 
• Shortness of breath.
• Vision problems.

Who’s a candidate for carotid ultrasound?

Most people are candidates for a carotid ultrasound because it is a safe, noninvasive procedure that can effectively diagnose carotid artery disease.

Alternatives to carotid ultrasound

Alternatives to carotid ultrasound include:

• CT or MR angiography — Also known as arteriography or arteriogram, this test uses x-rays or magnets and a special contrast dye to look for problems with your blood vessels.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Carotid Ultrasound?

Ultrasound imaging, in general, is considered very safe.

What Should I Expect From Carotid Ultrasound?

Before: How to prepare for carotid ultrasound

No special preparation is needed for a carotid ultrasound.

How long does carotid ultrasound take?

Carotid ultrasound takes 30 to 45 minutes.

During your carotid ultrasound

Carotid ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive, and painless test that does not require anesthesia. It is typically performed by a sonographer, ultrasound technologist, or radiologist.

During the procedure, your healthcare provider will:

• Apply ultrasound gel on your neck over your carotid arteries. The gel allows ultrasound waves to travel through your tissues.
• Place a handheld wand called a transducer on your neck and move it around to check blood flow in your carotid arteries. The transducer sends sound waves into your neck and receives signals the computer uses to create ultrasound images.

After your carotid ultrasound, a doctor will review your results, diagnose your condition, and recommend a treatment plan.

Recovery after carotid ultrasound

There is no recovery time needed after a carotid ultrasound.

Why Choose UPMC for Carotid Ultrasound Care?

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

• Access to world-class stroke expertise — UPMC is among the world’s best multidisciplinary centers for stroke and neurological care. When surgery is necessary, our stroke team is experienced in advanced treatments, including traditional and investigational approaches that are not widely available.
• A full range of treatment options — We offer nonsurgical and minimally invasive stroke and neurological care, as well as traditional open surgical procedures, allowing us to effectively treat all types of neurological disorders while reducing your risk of complications.
• Multidisciplinary care — We partner with neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and other medical experts to provide complete care that optimizes your recovery and quality of life.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-10-23.