One hundred carotid arteries in 53 patients suffering from transient cerebral ischaemia or amaurosis fugax have been studied prospectively. Internal carotid arteries were assessed by a six-channel pulsed Doppler imaging system combined with Doppler spectrum analysis and the findings compared with those obtained by X-ray contrast arteriography. Stenosis (greater than 25% diameter reduction) was correctly diagnosed by ultrasonography with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 96%. Occlusion was correctly diagnosed with a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 97%. The ability to recognize arterial stenosis and occlusion with this noninvasive system suggests that it has a major part to play in screening patients with suspected carotid artery disease.
Adult Aged