Basics and clinical applications of the carotid ultrasound

Joo, Seung-Jae

doi:2013.10.1.81

J Med Life Sci > Volume 10(1); 2013 > Article

Review

Journal of Medicine and Life Science 2013;10(1):81-87.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22730/jmls.2013.10.1.81 Published online December 18, 2018.

경동맥 초음파의 기초와 임상적 응용

Basics and clinical applications of the carotid ultrasound

Seung-Jae Joo

Correspondence: Seung-Jae Joo,

Abstract

Carotid ultrasound is performed according to the steps of the recommended guideline, but the purpose of the study should be considered. Screening of the carotid stenosis needs the careful examination of carotid Doppler ultrasound. To evaluate the future cardiovascular risk, the exact measurement of the carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and careful screening for carotid plaques is required. CIMT is usually measured at the far wall of the common carotid artery just before the branching of the internal and external carotid arteries. Mean CIMT ≥0.7 mm or max CIMT of the internal carotid artery ≥1.5 mm suggests the high risk group for the future cardiovascular diseases. Measurement of CIMT in already diagnosed patients with coronary artery disease or stroke has no clinical impact. For the patients of a high risk group, common cardiovascular risk factors, such as hyperlipidemia or hypertension, should be managed according to the guidelines, and if needed, coronary angiography may be considered. Carotid Doppler findings suggesting the carotid artery stenosis >50% usually require further studies such as CT or MR angiography of the carotid artery to evaluate the severity.

Key Words: Ultrasound, Carotid stenosis, Carotid intima-media thickness, Plaque, Risk