Ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries (BCA)
The condition of the arterial and vascular network in the neck can be determined using a painless and harmless diagnostic method called ultrasound, one type of which is duplex scanning. The cervical arteries and vessels are called brachiocephalic. In medicine, they are commonly referred to by abbreviations such as BCA (brachiocephalic arteries) or BCS (brachiocephalic vessels).
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Goals and indications for ultrasound
Examination of the extracranial brachiocephalic arteries (BCA) using duplex scanning offers distinctive advantages—the clarity and completeness of the data obtained. This type of diagnostic is aimed at thoroughly studying blood flow in the brain by applying ultrasound vibrations to the vessels and soft tissues.
The main objectives of ultrasound examination of the brachiocephalic arteries:
- Checking the uniformity of vascular channels
- Determining the width and thickness of vascular walls
- Analysis of individual characteristics of the vascular network anatomy
- Monitoring the patency of venous ducts
- Detecting areas of narrowing or complete obstruction of the vessel
- Measurement of blood flow velocity, its direction, and current strength
- Evaluation of the density, relief, and other characteristics of the vessel walls
- Detection of foci of atherosclerotic changes
- Diagnosis of the free lumen of the vessels
- Mapping the trajectory of the arteries and recording Curvatures
- Establishing the nature, exact location, and degree of progression of the damaging factor
Duplex scanning with additional rotational tests or stress tests is recognized as the best method for quickly, clearly, and thoroughly identifying vascular disorders affecting cerebral blood flow.
When is an ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries prescribed?
An ultrasound of the vessels should be performed if alarming signs are detected that indicate circulatory problems or the development of dangerous diseases. These warning signs include:
- Flickering spots before the eyes, decreased vision
- Slow blood flow in the arms and legs
- Difficulty pronouncing words clearly
- Loss of consciousness
- Regular dizziness
- Frequent severe headaches
- Traumatic events affecting the brain
- Irritating, persistent tinnitus
Promptly seeking a specialist consultation and undergoing an ultrasound significantly increases the chances of preventing serious consequences and maintaining your health.
What diseases does this procedure reveal?
Ultrasound examination of the brachiocephalic arteries and external sections of the jugular vessels helps to thoroughly analyze the condition of the entire vascular network and identify the slightest malfunctions. Such abnormalities include:
- Abnormal shape or development of arteries
- Obstacles to normal blood flow
- Cholesterol deposits and blood clots narrowing the lumen of blood vessels
- Poor blood circulation
- Decreased arterial diameter
- Complete blockage of blood vessels, leading to acute strokes
- Dilation of arterial walls with the formation of aneurysms
- Insufficient development of arteries from birth
- Pathological compression of blood vessels from the outside
- Chronic cerebrovascular accident, leading to problems with memory and motor coordination
Of particular importance is the ability of ultrasound to detect insufficient blood flow to the spine, known as vertebrobasilar insufficiency. This manifests as tinnitus, unsteadiness of gait, decreased concentration, and forgetfulness. Additionally, the doctor will notice changes in the flexibility and composition of the veins, characteristic of diabetic lesions, hypertension, or vascular inflammation.
Contraindications to ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries
Ultrasound examination of the brachiocephalic arteries is considered a completely safe diagnostic method. This procedure can be performed on children of all ages, adults, and women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
There are virtually no specific restrictions for ultrasound examination of the neck vessels. The only exception is cases where there are fresh wounds, scratches, or dermatological conditions on the skin of the neck. In such cases, it is advisable to postpone the procedure until the tissues have fully healed.
Preparation for ultrasound examination of the brachiocephalic arteries
Preparing for a brainstem ultrasound is quite simple. Following simple guidelines will help you avoid mistakes and achieve maximum accuracy.
Here are some important things to consider before the procedure:
- If you regularly take medications that support the function of your heart and blood vessels (for example, for high blood pressure or blood clots), discuss with your doctor the possibility of stopping them at least three days before the examination.
- The day before, avoid stimulating drinks and foods that increase blood circulation and brain activity, including strong tea, coffee, energy drinks, and alcohol.
- The day before the ultrasound, try to avoid intense sports or heavy physical activity, replacing them with a quiet walk in the fresh air about four hours before the procedure.
- Try to minimize the impact of bad habits: refrain from smoking cigarettes and visiting spas at least a few hours before your appointment.
Ignoring these tips can lead to false positives. results, which will lead to an incorrect diagnosis and require a repeat examination.
How is an ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries performed?
The BCA examination is completely comfortable and painless. The average procedure time is approximately 10-15 minutes. The patient is positioned on a special medical bed. For comfort, it is recommended to select loose clothing that allows for easy exposure of the neck area.
The specialist applies a special medical gel directly to the patient's skin, facilitating the penetration of ultrasound waves. The doctor then carefully moves the transducer along the anterolateral area of the neck, carefully examining each vessel in the cervical region. If a detailed examination of individual arterial sections is necessary, the doctor asks the patient to change body position—turn on their side or lie face down.
Upon completion of the procedure, the specialist provides the patient with a medical report containing a detailed description of the structure of the cervical arterial system and any abnormalities noted. Based on the analysis results, the specialist formulates an accurate diagnosis and develops an optimal treatment strategy.
Algorithm for performing an ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries in adults and children
A simple algorithm for the doctor and patient during a brachiocephalic artery ultrasound consists of preparation for the procedure, the ultrasound examination itself, and interpretation of its results. During the examination, the doctor performs detailed measurements of the vessel diameter, a comprehensive assessment of the internal lining, records blood flow rates, and compares the obtained values with established norms.
Normal vessels are characterized by smooth walls, no signs of deformation or thickening, and adequate blood flow for the patient's age. Regarding the specifics of performing a brachiocephalic artery ultrasound on young patients, they are often more restless than adults, so the doctor may need to spend a little longer to accurately assess the condition of the vessels. Even when working with children, the entire process takes only about 10-15 minutes, as with adults.
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Interpretation of ultrasound results
After completing the procedure, the specialist thoroughly analyzes the characteristics of the carotid, vertebral, and subclavian arteries. In healthy patients, the vessel walls are smooth and free of abnormalities and thickenings.
The intima-media ratio (IMR) in a physiologically normal body varies around 0.9 mm, but small variations up to 1.1 mm are acceptable. A value exceeding 1.3 mm indicates the formation of atherosclerotic deposits.
As for the anatomical thickness of the main arteries of the neck, the generally accepted standards are as follows: for the common carotid artery, the value ranges from 4.2-6.9 mm; for the external carotid artery, from 3 to 6 mm; and for the internal artery, 3-6.3 mm. The thickness of the vertebral arteries in clinically healthy individuals is in the range of 3-4 mm.
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What is an ultrasound of the brachiocephalic arteries?
This quick and safe examination method allows for easy visualization of the main blood vessels supplying the brain. This highly effective method clearly identifies the formation of cholesterol deposits, narrowing of arterial passages, and any abnormal changes in vascular structure.
The sensitivity of ultrasound equipment is so high that serious pathologies can be detected long before they become chronic, making therapy more effective and efficient.