Carotid Ultrasound
Healthy cardiovascular function is required to transport adequate oxygen to your brain. To get there, blood travels from the heart through the carotid arteries. When plaque builds up in the carotid arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis, the blockage can put you at risk for serious cardiovascular conditions, such as stroke. Carotid ultrasound is used to obtain an in-depth analysis of the carotid arteries, which is especially helpful in the context of preventive cardiology—our focus.
Why is the carotid artery important?
Well, there is more than one carotid artery. The common carotid artery has several branches, each one supplying blood to different parts of the neck, face, and brain. If blockage or stenosis—narrowing of blood vessels—occurs in the major common carotid artery, then several stations requiring oxygen suffer, like the brain. As the main thoroughfare for oxygen travel to the brain, the carotid artery needs to remain wide open to avoid problems such as heart attack and stroke.
What conditions can a carotid ultrasound detect?
A carotid ultrasound provides real-time perspective on what is going on currently in the carotid artery; this is valuable for predicting future stroke and heart attack risk. The examination is key in identifying atherosclerosis, locating hematomas, and detecting dissection—a split between layers in the artery wall—in the carotid artery. Reduced blood flow, especially to your brain, can cause heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. When performing a carotid ultrasound, Dr. Bereliani examines every detail to ensure he accurately gauges your potential for future cardiovascular risks.
While you may not have high blood pressure and your cholesterol levels may be normal, as we have seen with a number of our patients, you could still be at substantial risk for heart attack and stroke. The IMT test offers further diagnostic refinement compared to a standard cardiac ultrasound to more accurately assess cardiac risk.
Identify your risk, then reduce it.
Ultrasound imaging allows doctors to see inside your body without poking, prodding, or puncturing the skin. Carotid ultrasounds are likewise non-invasive and provide a clear picture of blood circulation throughout the vessels. The great detail available through carotid ultrasound allows for Dr. Bereliani to pinpoint specific at-risk locations along the carotid arteries and prescribe appropriate treatment. If you have high blood pressure, chest pains, or recurring headaches, a carotid ultrasound may be valuable in diagnosing the root cause of your symptoms. Even if you don’t feel any symptoms, a carotid ultrasound can determine whether or not you are at risk for cardiac diseases.
How do I get a carotid ultrasound?
Call the Center for Preventive Medicine and Cardiology at 310-550-8000 or click here to make an appointment. Any of our friendly staff will be happy to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bereliani and to answer any questions you may have about the carotid ultrasound procedure or anything else. We are conveniently located in the heart of Beverly Hills, within easy driving distance for most residents of greater Los Angeles.