The Role of Ultrasound in Stroke Prevention and Detection
A TCD ultrasound can also detect clots in the brain's blood vessels, possibly leading to stroke.
Ultrasounds are a non-invasive medical tool to diagnose and formulate treatments for various conditions. Although these tools are most commonly used to monitor pregnancies, they are also useful for detecting stroke indicators and strategizing preventative measures to reduce their probability.
Here are some of the key uses of ultrasounds in stroke prevention and detection:
Measuring carotid plaque
Carotid plaque, or the accumulation of matter on carotid arteries, is a primary indicator that an individual is susceptible to an increased risk of stroke. An ultrasound comes in handy for technicians to monitor plaque levels. If they see these levels reaching a danger zone, a doctor can tailor a plan to reduce the plaque and lower the likelihood of a stroke.
The type of treatments can range from mild dietary and lifestyle changes to medication and surgery if the carotid blockage is severe.
Measuring intracerebral blood flow
Another use for ultrasounds in stroke prevention is monitoring blood flow, specifically the brain's intracerebral blood flow. Technicians use a Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound to measure the blood's direction, speed, and movement to detect abnormalities that may indicate increased stroke risk.
A TCD ultrasound can also detect clots in the brain's blood vessels, possibly leading to stroke.
The ultrasound allows medical professionals to identify issues with intracerebral blood flow and assess if the patient is prone to an increased risk of stroke. If an ultrasound technician sees indicators of a stroke, they can advise the doctor, who will design a program to improve blood flow in the brain and reduce the possibility of a stroke.
Identifying abnormal brain structures
Yet another indicator of increased stroke risk is the presence of abnormal brain structures, such as aneurysms and tumors. An ultrasound is an effective tool for identifying structures that, if not found and addressed, are common causes of strokes.
The type of preventative treatment employed by medical professionals if the ultrasound detects abnormal brain structures depends on factors like location, and type. Due to the potential dangers, including strokes of abnormal brain structures, preventative treatments are usually more invasive and often require surgery.
Consult an ultrasound industry professional
Ultrasound equipment plays a vital role in stroke prevention and detection. The type of ultrasound machine and techniques used to detect stroke indicators depends on the risk factor assessed. It's best to consult an ultrasound equipment expert to discuss the machine that suits the task.
Cardiovascular Speciality Imaging offers various ultrasound services and mobile Ultrasound Services to physicians, imaging centers, hospitals, and nursing facilities throughout Northwest Florida. Call us at (844)EZSCANS.
