Carotid Ultrasound in Newton, NJ

Cardiologists in Newton, Vernon, and Milford

A carotid ultrasound is a procedure used to evaluate the blood flow through the carotid arteries.

The board-certified cardiologists have extensive experience performing safe and accurate carotid ultrasounds. To schedule a carotid ultrasound in NJ; Vernon, NJ; Milford, PA; or Newton, NJ, contact Sussex Cardiology today. Give our office a call at (973) 579-2100 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

How Does Carotid Ultrasound Work?

During a carotid ultrasound, a sonographer presses a transducer against your neck, which then emits sound waves that echo to produce an on-screen image of the carotid arteries. This image allows the physician to determine if the arteries are narrowed or blocked, which can greatly increase an individual’s risk of stroke.

Other Uses of a Carotid Ultrasound

Carotid ultrasounds are also able to perform a number of other services like:

• Locating of a collection of clotted blood, known as a hematoma, that may be inhibiting blood flow
• Evaluation of blood flow through the carotid artery following surgery to remove plaques
• Determining the efficiency of a recently placed stent
• Detection of other abnormalities of the carotid artery that can disrupt blood flow

Typically, a cardiologist will recommend a carotid ultrasound if the patient has certain types of strokes or another medical condition that can increase the risk of a stroke such as:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• A family history of stroke or artery disease
• A recent transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke
• An abnormal sound in carotid arteries (bruit)

Additional Testing

There are several tests that are similar to a carotid ultrasound and can examine blood flow within other areas of the body. These types of tests include:

• Cardiac stress test
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Ankle-brachial index test