Neck vessels and stroke risk
The doctor measures the thickness of the intima-media complex (the norm is up to 0.9-1 mm; thickening is a marker of atherosclerosis before the appearance of plaques), describes each plaque (size, stenosis as a percentage, surface - ulcerated embologenic) and blood flow through the vertebral arteries (hypoplasia, extravasal compression in cervical osteochondrosis). Carotid artery stenosis of more than 50–70% is an indication for consultation with a vascular surgeon (endarterectomy or stent prevents stroke). Patients with plaques are prescribed statins and monitoring every 6–12 months; The study is included in the cardiac check-up.
Indications
- swelling, pain, heaviness in the legs, varicose veins - the condition of the valves and veins;
- suspicion of deep vein thrombosis - emergency examination;
- intermittent claudication, chilliness of the feet - leg arteries;
- dizziness, tinnitus, previous stroke - neck vessels;
- control after vascular surgery.
Why ultrasound
Ultrasound is a safe imaging method without radiation: suitable for children, pregnant women and for repeated monitoring. The doctor sees organs in real time, assesses their structure, size and blood flow (in Doppler mode), and a conclusion with measurements is issued immediately after the study. The information content depends on the training and experience of the specialist; In the clinics below, ultrasound examinations are performed by ultrasound diagnostic doctors using expert-class devices.
