Carotid Artery Ultrasound – The High-Tech Heart Test
The Carotid Artery Ultrasound is the ideal means of assessing the presence of preliminary stages of atherosclerosis or the arteries getting clogged or thickening of the inner walls. This could assist in early recognition of those individuals that would require radical risk factor alteration. But, this test has its plus points and shortcomings.
The Carotid Artery Ultrasound employs ultrasound and top-of-the-line software to compute the extent of thickening in the interior walls of the carotid arteries that are responsible for circulating blood to the brain – a depiction of preliminary stage of atherosclerosis.
Several research conducted on more than fifty thousand patients have demonstrated that if one is in the 75th quantile or more for one’s age bracket, one has a greater likelihood of developing CAD or coronary arterial diseases and stroke. Those that belong to the 75th quantile would mean that 75% of one’s peers have less arterial clogging as compared to you.
Who Must Opt for the Carotid Artery Ultrasound?
As is the case with coronary calcium scores, the carotid artery ultrasound is usually suggested on the basis of conventional risk factors to those individuals that have chances of developing heart disease which is intermediate in nature. Experts have recommended the carotid artery ultrasound or coronary calcium scores as a preliminary course of diagnosis in men past the age of 45 years and in women that are past the age of 55 years.
Pros of Choosing Carotid Artery Ultrasound
This procedure is relatively pain-free and non-invasive that could be conducted with ease at the doctor’s clinic. Also, this test does not involve exposure of the patient to the undesirable effects of radiation.
Cons of Choosing Carotid Artery Ultrasound
In contrast to the coronary calcium scores, carotid artery ultrasound does not provide precise information regarding the heart as one is observing the arteries present in the neck region.
Additionally, the crucial aspect is that the correctness of the test is solely dependent on the proficiency and skilfulness of the technician conducting the study. Hence, the need for a proficient machinist who is well-aware of the latest procedures is crucial. One must ascertain whether the concerned institution is following the latest guidelines.
Costs of Doing a Carotid Artery Ultrasound
The test usually costs between two to five hundred dollars. As is the case with majority of the diagnostic tests, Medicare and other insurance providers normally do not bear the expenses.
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