The method of ultrasound diagnostics is well known to everyone. It allows you to quickly identify the causes of certain symptoms and complaints, assess the condition of internal organs and systems. Many patients are interested in what shows the ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck and for what a similar method of investigation is generally prescribed. In addition, it is difficult to understand the terms used for this type of diagnosis.
For what purposes is the ultrasound of the brachiocephalic vessels of the head and neck used?
To understand the meaning of the study in question, one must have an idea of the blood supply to the brain. Brachiocephalic arteries are the main vessels, which are the main "transport" of biological fluid and oxygen to tissues. The brain is supplied with blood by the internal somnolence and vertebral arteries, as well as by superficial and deep veins, including vertebrates. Most of the vessels are located not only within the skull, but also in the neck.
Thus, the described type of ultrasound is necessary research in case of suspicions on the pathology of cerebral circulation.
Indications for this diagnostic technique:
- headache;
- noise in the ears ;
- deterioration of attention, memory and ability to concentrate;
- dizziness;
- loss of consciousness;
- visual impairment;
- insomnia;
- numbness of limbs , chilliness;
- shaky gait.
What can be seen on the ultrasound of the main vessels of the head and neck?
During the procedure, the doctor evaluates the following diagnostic parameters of blood vessels:
- Passability;
- condition and elasticity of the walls;
- diameter of the lumen;
- the course of the anatomical trajectory;
- condition of nearby tissues;
- speed and pattern of blood flow;
- tortuosity.
The listed indicators are necessary for the subsequent decoding of ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck. Due to the comparison of the obtained data with the standards, it is possible to fairly accurately diagnose anomalies in the development of arteries and veins, systemic vascular diseases, the presence, magnitude and quantity of cholesterol plaques, the degree of atherosclerosis. Experienced doctor after ultrasound can detect any pathology of the vessels, which provoke a decrease in the volume of incoming blood to the brain.
How is ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck performed?
It is worth noting that the described survey technology is correctly called duplex scanning, since it passes in 2 stages:
- Ultrasound in two-dimensional B-mode. At this stage, only extracranial veins and arteries (carotid, vertebral, jugular) are considered. This stage is necessary for a correct evaluation of the structure of blood vessels, as well as the state of surrounding and nearby soft tissues.
- Transcranial ultrasound or transcranial dopplerography. This mode allows you to examine all the blood vessels of the carotid and vertebrobasilar basin inside the skull. In addition to the basic indicators of the functioning of arteries and veins, transcranial dopplerography provides information about the nature and speed of blood flow.
The stages described must necessarily be carried out in a complex manner. Choosing one type of research will not provide the physician with enough data to establish the correct diagnosis.
The procedure itself is performed without any preliminary preparation and consists of the following:
- The patient removes jewelry and accessories from the head and neck.
- A special gel for ultrasound is applied to the skin.
- The specialist for 30-45 minutes first examines the vessels of the neck, and then moves the sensor to the temporal region, just above the zygomatic arch.
- Registration of received data on thermal paper and in writing.
- End of duplex scanning, removal of gel residues.
Conclusion, as a rule, is given immediately after ultrasound.