Carotid Doppler Ultrasound (CDUS): A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through the large carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain. The CDUS is a painless and harmless test that utilizes a handheld transducer which is passed lightly over the skin above a blood vessel. The transducer sends and receives sound waves that bounce off the blood cells within the arteries. A computer then processes the information from the reflected sound waves and provides detailed information regarding the velocity of blood flow and the diameter of the arterial lumen. Arteriosclerosis resulting in the narrowing of the carotid arteries can lead to stroke. The results of this test help doctors determine stroke risk as well as the appropriate stroke preventative measures.
