Name of the Procedure:

Common Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (IMT) Study, Carotid Ultrasound IMT

Summary

A Common Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (IMT) Study uses ultrasound imaging to measure the thickness of the carotid artery walls. This helps assess the risk of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries) and coronary heart disease.

Purpose

The IMT study aims to:

• Evaluate the presence of atherosclerotic plaque.
• Assess the patient’s risk for coronary heart disease and stroke.

Indications

• Patients with risk factors for coronary heart disease (e.g., age, family history, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol).
• Symptoms such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or other signs suggesting carotid artery disease.
• Patients undergoing evaluation for cardiovascular risk.

Preparation

• No fasting or specific preparation is typically required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and medical history.
• Removal of jewelry or clothing around the neck area may be necessary for proper imaging.

Procedure Description

1. Positioning: The patient lies on their back with their neck extended.
2. Application of Gel: Ultrasound gel is applied to the neck to ensure good contact.
3. Imaging: The healthcare provider uses a handheld ultrasound probe to capture images of the carotid artery.
4. Measurement: The thickness of the arterial walls is measured and recorded.

• Tools: Ultrasound machine and probe.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, radiology department, or hospital.

Personnel

• Ultrasound Technician or Medical Sonographer
• Cardiologist or Radiologist (for image interpretation)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Rarely, there may be minor discomfort from the probe.
• Rare: No major risks or complications are typically associated with this non-invasive procedure.

Benefits

• Early detection of atherosclerosis.
• Non-invasive and painless.
• Helps in assessing the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: None required.
• Expected Recovery Time: Immediate. Patients can resume normal activities right away.
• Follow-Up: Based on results, further testing or lifestyle/medication adjustments may be recommended.

Alternatives

• Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score: CT scan to measure calcium in coronary arteries.
• Coronary Angiography: Invasive imaging to view coronary arteries.
• Pros and Cons:
  • CAC is non-invasive but exposes patients to radiation,
  • Angiography is more detailed but invasive and riskier.

Patient Experience

• During: Patients may feel slight pressure from the ultrasound probe but no pain.
• After: No pain or discomfort is expected. Normal activities can be resumed immediately.
• Pain Management and Comfort: No pain management is typically necessary.