Examination of the carotid artery


A longitudinal carotid endarterectomy scar is placed on the anterior aspect of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The middle of the incision is situated at the level of the carotid bifurcation, which corresponds in most cases to the upper border of the thyroid cartilage.





What investigations are needed in the context of carotid artery stenosis and neurological deficits?




Rule out cardiac embolic causes of neurological deficit: troponin (if indicated), check ECG (AF, ischaemia) and cardiac echocardiography (mural thrombi).



Establish degree of carotid stenosis and patency of vertebral arteries using US Doppler, MRA or CTA.

Only gold members can continue reading. Log In or Register to continue

Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel

Feb 18, 2017 | Posted by in GENERAL SURGERY | Comments Off on Examination of the carotid artery

Full access? Get Clinical Tree

Get Clinical Tree app for offline access