Duplex scanning of the brachiocephalic arteries (DS BCA)
Duplex scanning is a modern ultrasound technique that allows for a highly accurate assessment of the condition of the major vessels supplying the brain. This examination combines visualization of the anatomical structure of the arteries and simultaneous analysis of blood flow characteristics in real time. This combination provides the specialist with comprehensive information about the presence of even the earliest pathological changes, which is important for the early prevention of acute cerebrovascular accidents. The procedure is considered completely safe and does not involve radiation exposure, making it suitable for a wide range of patient groups.
At the K+31 Clinic in Moscow, the examination is performed using expert-class equipment, guaranteeing the highest level of detail and accuracy. Diagnostics are performed by highly qualified physicians with extensive experience in vascular ultrasound. We combine cutting-edge medical technology with affordable prices, providing our patients with confidence in their health and high-quality diagnostics without overpaying.
specialists
equipment
treatment
The essence of the technique and its principle of operation
The abbreviation BCA stands for brachiocephalic arteries (BCA), the key main vessels supplying blood to the brain and soft tissues of the head. These include the carotid, vertebral, and subclavian arteries, which form the so-called circle of Willis at the base of the brain—a unique ring-shaped structure responsible for the uniform distribution of blood flow. This technique allows for a detailed assessment of the condition of the extracranial sections of the brachiocephalic arteries located in the neck. The functioning of the central nervous system directly depends on their proper functioning, and any obstruction of these pathways can lead to serious neurological complications, such as ischemic stroke.
Duplex scanning is based on a synthesis of two diagnostic modes. The first, B-mode, or two-dimensional grayscale ultrasound, allows for the visualization of the arteries themselves in real time. The physician sees not just an outline on the monitor, but the detailed structure of the vascular wall: its thickness, integrity, the presence of atherosclerotic plaques, thrombi, or congenital malformations. Essentially, they obtain an ultrasound map of the vascular anatomy.
The second component of the study, spectral Doppler ultrasound, evaluates the functional characteristics of blood flow in the section being examined. Using this physical phenomenon, the device captures the speed and direction of blood flow through the vessel, converting this data into a graph. This allows for hemodynamic analysis: identifying areas of narrowing (stenosis), where flow velocity changes abnormally, or assessing the degree of resistance to blood flow. The color mapping function clearly visualizes multidirectional blood flows on the screen, simplifying the diagnosis of turbulent flow in areas of constriction.
The main advantage of the scan is the simultaneous display of both modes on a single screen. The specialist not only observes the anatomical features of the artery but also analyzes blood flow within its lumen in real time, accurately determining how the identified structural changes affect the blood supply to the brain. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and the selection of effective treatment strategies.
Why is the procedure performed and how does it differ from other methods?
Doppler ultrasound examination of the brachiocephalic arteries is prescribed for a wide range of diagnostic purposes. It provides the physician with comprehensive information that allows them not only to detect the presence of a disease but also to determine its stage, potential risks, and progression.
The main objectives of the examination are:
- Assessment of the structural condition of the vessels. The physician examines the structure of the vascular wall in detail and measures its thickness, which is a key marker for the onset of atherosclerotic changes before plaque formation.
- Detection of atherosclerotic lesions. The examination allows the detection of cholesterol plaques, their size, structure (stable or unstable), and the extent to which they obstruct the artery and impair blood flow.
- Diagnosis of deformities and anomalies. This method effectively detects pathological tortuosity, looping, and other congenital or acquired structural anomalies of the brachiocephalic arteries.
- Detection of stenoses and occlusions. The procedure accurately determines the presence and degree of narrowing or complete occlusion of the vessel, which is crucial for predicting stroke risk.
- Blood flow analysis. Doppler ultrasonography measures the speed and direction of blood flow and evaluates vascular resistance, providing a comprehensive picture of the quality of cerebral blood supply.
As for the advantages of this technique, it is rightfully considered the gold standard in the primary diagnosis of pathologies of the arteries supplying the brain.
Key advantages:
- Absolute safety. The method is based on ultrasound, which does not emit ionizing radiation. This makes the examination suitable for repeated use to monitor the condition over time, as well as for a wide range of patients, including the elderly and those with comorbidities.
- Non-invasive and painless. The procedure does not require breaking the skin, injections, or insertion of instruments. It is comfortable for the patient and causes no discomfort.
- Highly informative. Modern ultrasound scanners provide excellent visualization, allowing for detailed data on both vascular structure and functional indicators of blood circulation.
- No preparation required and quick. The examination requires no complicated preparation and takes an average of 20 to 40 minutes.
- Speedy results. The ultrasound technician can provide a report immediately after the procedure, allowing the attending physician to quickly make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
In what cases is it recommended to undergo an examination?
Duplex scanning is a reasonable procedure in a number of clinical situations and risk factors. This examination provides an objective picture of the condition of the major vessels and assesses the risk of developing cerebrovascular pathologies.
Diagnostics are especially important in the following cases:
- Presence of risk factors and chronic diseases. The procedure is indicated for patients with arterial hypertension, diabetes, elevated cholesterol levels, and diagnosed atherosclerosis of other vascular beds. These conditions greatly increase the likelihood of damage to the brachiocephalic arteries.
- Planning major surgical interventions. The examination is often prescribed as part of preoperative preparation for cardiac procedures, such as coronary artery bypass grafting. This allows for risk assessment and the prevention of severe brain complications during surgery.
- Dynamic monitoring of vascular health. For patients with already diagnosed pathologies, such as stenosis or atherosclerotic plaques, duplex scanning becomes the primary tool for monitoring the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of prescribed therapy.
- Post-operative monitoring. The study is indispensable for monitoring the results of surgical treatments on neck vessels, such as stenting and carotid endarterectomy. It allows for the timely detection of possible complications, such as restenosis.
Warning signals requiring specialist attention
The appearance of neurological symptoms indicating a possible disruption of cerebral blood flow should prompt immediate medical attention and subsequent duplex scanning.
Such warning signs include:
- Episodes of sudden dizziness, especially associated with head movements or changes in body position
- Spontaneous tinnitus, which may be constant or intermittent
- Unexplained headaches, which are not clearly localized and often diffuse
- Visual disturbances: the appearance of a veil, spots, short-term loss of visual field
- Sudden and unexplained weakness
- Unsteadiness of gait, loss of coordination
- History of transient ischemic attacks, which manifest as temporary weakness in the limbs, numbness, and speech impairment
General information
Restrictions on the diagnostic procedure
Unlike many diagnostic methods, duplex arterial scanning is characterized by a complete absence of absolute contraindications. This is directly related to the safety of ultrasound technologies, which do not carry an ionizing load and can be used repeatedly without harm to the patient's health.
However, in clinical practice, there are situations considered relative limitations. Taking these into account helps ensure the maximum information yield of the examination and patient comfort. Temporary contraindications include:
- Extensive skin damage in the examination area. Post-burn wounds, infectious and inflammatory lesions, or severe skin diseases may make the procedure technically impossible or worsen the patient's condition. In such cases, it is recommended to wait until the wound heals or the acute process subsides.
- Generally severe patient condition. If a patient is in intensive care or in an unstable condition requiring continuous vital signs monitoring and support, a scheduled ultrasound may be postponed at the discretion of the attending physician in favor of stabilization of vital signs.
- Inability to achieve the required body position. For high-quality imaging, the patient must lie supine, sometimes with the head tilted back. Severe dyspnea when lying down, certain neurological conditions that limit mobility, or inappropriate patient behavior may complicate diagnosis.
- Severe obesity. A significant layer of subcutaneous fat in the neck can absorb and scatter the ultrasound signal, which impairs imaging quality and reduces diagnostic accuracy. In this situation, the physician may recommend alternative methods or note technical difficulties in the report.
The decision on the advisability of the examination in the presence of relative limitations is always made by the attending physician on an individual basis, based on the balance of potential benefits and possible risks.
Our doctors
This award is given to clinics with the highest ratings according to user ratings, a large number of requests from this site, and in the absence of critical violations.
This award is given to clinics with the highest ratings according to user ratings. It means that the place is known, loved, and definitely worth visiting.
The ProDoctors portal collected 500 thousand reviews, compiled a rating of doctors based on them and awarded the best. We are proud that our doctors are among those awarded.
Make an appointment at a convenient time on the nearest date
Price
Other services
Appointment to the doctor
Reviews
Our clinics
Application “Personal Account K+31”
