Neck vascular ultrasound
The health of the neck vessels directly impacts the blood supply to the brain, so regular examinations help detect potential pathologies early and prevent serious consequences. For this purpose, modern medicine uses an effective and safe method – ultrasound diagnostics, which is performed on an outpatient basis.
At the K+31 clinic, you can have a neck vascular ultrasound using modern, expert equipment. Our specialists will provide high-quality diagnostics, and if necessary, you can immediately schedule a consultation with a specialist who will provide recommendations for treatment or prevention.
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Indications for Ultrasound of the Neck Vessels
Ultrasound of the neck vessels is recommended for the following indications:
- Persistent or frequent unexplained headaches
- Dizziness, a sensation of noise or ringing in the ears
- Pre-syncope or loss of consciousness
- Impaired memory, concentration, or cognitive function
- Numbness of the face, upper or lower extremities
- Sudden weakness or tingling in various parts of the body
- Spots before the eyes, blurred vision
- Persistent high blood pressure, especially in combination with other risk factors
- Atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia
- The need for vascular assessment before surgery
Contraindications to neck ultrasound
Neck ultrasound is a safe procedure with no absolute contraindications. It is prescribed to adults, including pregnant women, and children of all ages. However, there are a number of restrictions that require postponing the examination:
- Injuries to the cervical spine – burns, wounds, inflammation
- Severe swelling or severe injuries to the cervical spine
- Active infections in the neck
- Inability of the patient to remain still
- General severe condition
Contraindications to the procedure are determined by the doctor during a visual examination of the patient.
Preparing for an ultrasound of the neck vessels
To ensure reliable results, the following preparation is required before the procedure:
- It is recommended to refrain from smoking 1-2 hours beforehand: tobacco smoke constricts blood vessels, which can negatively impact the diagnostic results.
- Before the ultrasound, do not consume strong tea, coffee, or energy drinks, as they can cause temporary changes in vascular tone.
- On the day of the procedure, it is advisable to avoid applying makeup or cream to the neck. Remove jewelry that could interfere with the probe's contact.
- If you are taking vasoconstrictors, antihypertensives, or other medications, inform your doctor—in some cases, their intake may need to be adjusted.
- Avoid physical and emotional stress on the day of the examination.
How is an ultrasound of the neck vessels performed?
The procedure usually takes up to half an hour. The patient lies on a couch, lying down or reclining, with their head slightly tilted back. The healthcare professional applies a gel to the neck to ensure good skin contact and ultrasound transmission.
The doctor sequentially examines the carotid, vertebral, and subclavian arteries, as well as the internal jugular veins. To examine each vessel from different angles, the specialist asks the patient to slightly turn or tilt their head and change body position.
During the examination, the doctor records blood flow velocity, flow direction, the presence of constrictions, wall echogenicity, plaque formation, and other pathological changes. The obtained data is stored in the device's memory and documented in a protocol for analysis.
After the examination, the patient does not require a lengthy recovery period. They can immediately leave the clinic and return to their normal activities.
General information
What does a neck ultrasound reveal?
During a neck ultrasound, the doctor obtains a detailed picture of the arteries and veins, including:
- Measurements of vessel lumen and identification of areas of narrowing (stenosis)
- The presence and nature of atherosclerotic plaques — an ultrasound examination can study their structure, density, and risk of rupture.
- Blood flow velocity and direction — where there is arterial insufficiency or retrograde (reverse) flow.
- Vascular geometry abnormalities — tortuosity, hypoplasia of individual segments, etc.
- The presence of thrombi, embolic inclusions, or obstructions to blood flow.
- The condition of blood vessels in people with chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes) and the effectiveness of therapeutic correction.
Based on the data obtained, decisions can be made regarding drug therapy, the need for surgical intervention, or dynamic observation.
FAQ
Do I need any special preparation for a neck ultrasound?
Generally, no. The procedure is performed without any special preparation. Simply refrain from smoking for a few hours before the procedure and avoid any physical exertion. You can learn more about preparing for the examination during an in-person consultation with your doctor.
Can a neck ultrasound be performed on young children?
Ultrasound diagnostics has no age restrictions. The procedure is safe, so it can be performed even on newborns.
Can I have an ultrasound if I have tinnitus or headaches?
Yes, these symptoms often warrant a neck vascular examination. However, we recommend consulting a primary care physician or neurologist first. Your doctor may recommend a comprehensive examination, including not only an ultrasound but also other laboratory and instrumental tests.
How often should a vascular ultrasound be performed?
People at risk, even in the absence of alarming symptoms, should have an ultrasound at least once a year. Diagnostics can also be scheduled at any time, without restrictions.
Can neck ultrasound replace angiography or MRI?
Ultrasound may be prescribed in addition to angiography or MRI to obtain functional information about blood flow. These methods do not replace each other, but rather complement each other. The decision regarding advanced diagnostics is made solely by a physician.
What should I do if a stenosis or plaque is detected during an ultrasound?
The doctor will determine the severity of the changes. Medication, observation, or, if necessary, intervention (angioplasty, stenting) may be possible. Self-diagnosis should never be attempted.
How much does a vascular ultrasound cost at K+31 and how do I schedule an appointment?
The price of an ultrasound in Moscow depends on the scope of the examination. You can schedule an appointment at K+31 without a referral. Call the contact number, and the administrator will help you find a convenient time.
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What is an ultrasound of the neck vessels?
Neck ultrasound is a highly informative examination that allows for visualization and assessment of blood flow in the carotid and vertebral arteries, as well as other major vessels located in the neck.
The combination of several imaging modes—Doppler, duplex, and triplex—provides a detailed clinical picture: the condition of the vessel lumen, blood flow velocity, the presence of stenosis or cholesterol plaques, and anatomical features.
The K+31 Clinic uses advanced ultrasound systems that provide the clearest possible images and allow for the detection of subtle changes in blood vessels and arteries even before symptoms appear.