Ultrasound Carotid (Stroke)
A carotid ultrasound is a painless, high-resolution imaging test that uses Doppler ultrasound waves to assess the structure of the carotid arteries and measure blood flow. It identifies narrowing, plaque build-up, or blockages that may increase the risk of stroke.
A carotid ultrasound is clinically indicated to:
- Screen for carotid artery stenosis (narrowing)
- Detect atherosclerotic plaque, calcification, or arterial thickening
- Assess stroke risk in high-risk individuals
- Monitor known carotid disease progression
- Evaluate blood flow post-surgery or stenting
- Investigate bruit detected during physical examination
By identifying early vascular changes, carotid ultrasound helps prevent stroke through timely intervention.
Who Should Undergo a Carotid Ultrasound?
Recommended for individuals who have:
- History of stroke or mini-stroke (TIA)
- High blood pressure or diabetes
- High cholesterol or known atherosclerosis
- Smoking history
- Family history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease
- Symptoms of reduced brain blood flow (temporary visual loss, weakness, numbness)
- Detectable carotid bruit on physical examination
- Cardiovascular disease (e.g., coronary artery disease)
When is a Carotid Ultrasound Recommended?
- During routine stroke or vascular risk assessment
- Following episodes of transient neurological symptoms
- After cardiac events or in patients with systemic atherosclerosis
- Prior to major cardiovascular procedures
- For periodic monitoring in patients with known carotid stenosis
How is the Carotid Ultrasound Performed?
- You lie comfortably with your neck slightly extended.
- A water-based gel is applied to both sides of the neck.
- The sonographer moves the transducer along the carotid arteries.
- Doppler mode assesses blood flow velocity and turbulence.
- The procedure is painless and typically takes 15–30 minutes.
No fasting or special preparation is required.
Key Advantages
- Non-invasive and painless
- No radiation, safe for all ages
- Quick and convenient; results available immediately
- Accurately detects plaque buildup and artery narrowing
- Helps assess stroke risk early
- Useful for monitoring existing carotid artery disease over time
Ultrasound Abdomen & Pelvis
An ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the structures within these areas of the body. It is commonly used to evaluate the organs and tissues in the abdominal and pelvic regions for various medical conditions.
Ultrasound Abdomen
Performed to evaluate and diagnose conditions involving the:
- Liver – fatty liver, cysts, masses, cirrhosis
- Gallbladder – stones, inflammation
- Pancreas – pancreatitis, masses
- Spleen – enlargement or lesions
- Kidneys – stones, cysts, hydronephrosis
- Aorta & major vessels – aneurysms, structural changes
Preparation: Fasting for 8 hours is required (plain water and medications allowed) to reduce gas and improve visual clarity.
Ultrasound Pelvis
Used to assess:
- Bladder and urinary tract
- Uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes (female)
- Prostate and seminal vesicles (male)
- Pelvic masses, cysts, or fluid collections
- Lower abdominal pain or menstrual irregularities
Preparation: A full bladder is required. Drink plenty of water 1 hour before to improve visualisation of pelvic structures.
Who Should Undergo an Abdomen & Pelvis Ultrasound?
This ultrasound is recommended for individuals with:
- Abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort
- Persistent nausea or abnormal liver/kidney blood tests
- Suspected gallstones or kidney stones
- Urinary symptoms such as frequency, retention, or pain
- Menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, or pelvic pain
- Suspected pelvic inflammatory disease
- Prostate-related symptoms
- Monitoring known cysts, fibroids, or liver/kidney conditions
It is commonly used for general health screening as well.
When is the Ultrasound Recommended?
- When symptoms suggest abdominal, urinary, or reproductive organ abnormalities
- During routine health screening and follow-up
- During pregnancy evaluation (if applicable)
- To monitor chronic liver, kidney, or reproductive conditions
- When abnormal blood test results require correlation with imaging
How is the Abdomen & Pelvis Ultrasound Performed?
Preparation
- Abdomen: Fast for 8 hours (water allowed).
- Pelvis: Drink water beforehand to fill the bladder.
Specific instructions will be provided depending on the area being scanned.
Procedure
- You lie on an examination table.
- A water-based gel is applied to improve sound wave transmission.
- The transducer is gently moved across the abdomen and pelvic region.
- You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath briefly.
- Images are captured in real-time for clinical interpretation.
- The gel is wiped off, and you may resume normal activity immediately.
The procedure is painless, safe, and typically takes 20–30 minutes.
Key Advantages
- Non-invasive and painless
- Radiation-free, safe for all ages including pregnant women
- Quick and convenient with immediate imaging results
- Detailed view of multiple organs such as liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, bladder, uterus, and ovaries
- Helps detect common issues early, including cysts, stones, inflammation, and tumours
- Useful for ongoing monitoring of chronic abdominal or pelvic conditions
- Real-time imaging for better assessment of organ movement and blood flow