Carotid Artery Scan: Evaluating Risk of Stroke
A carotid artery scan, which is done via ultrasound technology, is available to determine how well blood is flowing through the carotid arteries, which supplies blood from the heart to the brain. The carotid arteries are located on each side of the neck. A carotid artery scan is a simple procedure that requires no previous preparation. It is completely safe and painless and only takes about 30 minutes to complete. You may resume normal activities after the scan. Often this test is usually performed upon a physician referral. If you think you may be a candidate for this type of scan please discuss it with your physician, and call Twin Peaks Medical Imaging.
How Does this Scan Help? An Overview of Stroke
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, ranking behind disease of the heart and cancer. Each year approximately 600,000 people suffer a stroke, and every 3.1 minutes someone dies of stroke. One of the major causes of stroke in the U.S. is atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries. Over the years, it has been realized that blockage of the carotid artery can result in decreased blood to the brain, and hence a stroke. Additionally, the plaque build-up in the carotid frequently breaks up into small particles and these particles go straight to the brain and are responsible for mini-strokes.