Carotid duplex is a procedure that uses ultrasound to look for plaques, blood clots, or other blood flow problems in the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries, located in the neck, supply blood to the brain.

The test is done in the peripheral vascular lab or radiology department of a hospital. You are placed on your back and your head will be supported to prevent movement.

A water-soluble gel is placed on your skin. A handheld device called a transducer is placed on the area. The transducer directs high-frequency sound waves to the arteries being tested, while the gel helps transmit the sound. The ultrasound is turned on and images of the carotid arteries and pulse wave forms are obtained.

No preparation is necessary.

The test is noninvasive and painless.

The test checks blood flow in the carotid arteries. It can detect narrowing in the arteries (stenosis), clotting (thrombosis), and other causes of blockage in the carotid arteries.

If the results are normal, there is no turbulence or disruption in the blood flow. The artery is free of any blockage, narrowing, or other problems.

Disturbances in the blood flow indicate atherosclerosis or other conditions.

There are no specific risks related to having this procedure.