The carotid arteries are the two main arteries on each side of the neck that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain. Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque (fat, cholesterol, and other substances) collects and forms along the walls of the carotid arteries. Over time, if left untreated carotid artery disease increases the risk for stroke.

Stroke Facts:

• 795,000 people suffer strokes in the United States every year.
• Every 40 seconds someone in the United States experiences a stroke.
• Every 4 minutes someone in the United States dies from stroke.
• Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability.
• Stroke kills two times more women than breast cancer annually.
• 80% of strokes are preventable with early detection.

Ultrasound screenings can assess blood flow in the carotid arteries, measure the speed of the blood flow and estimate the diameter of a blood vessel and degree of obstruction, if present.

The thyroid is in front of the neck just above the collar bone and is shaped like a butterfly. Thyroid hormones act throughout the body, influencing metabolism, growth and development, and body temperature. More than half of Americans with overactive or underactive thyroid glands remain undiagnosed.

An ultrasound of the thyroid may identify the presence of cysts, nodules, and enlargements.

These organs process blood to sift out waste products and extra water. More than 37 million people are estimated to have chronic kidney disease.

An ultrasound of the kidneys may identify the presence of cysts, masses, enlargements, and some forms of calcifications (stones).

We recommended a spleen ultrasound to examine various conditions, including those that may have non-specific indications, such as abdominal injuries, trauma, or abnormal abdominal bloating.

An ultrasound screening of the spleen may identify the presence of calcifications, cysts, nodules, and enlargements.

The abdominal aorta is the main artery that runs off the heart and supplies oxygenated blood to the entire body. Over time, artery walls may become weak and widen. The pressure of the blood pumping through the aorta may cause this weak area to bulge outward like a balloon and rupture.

If an aneurysm were to form, typically there are no noticeable warning signs until the point of rupture. AAA are oftentimes referred to as “Silent Killers”.

An ultrasound of the abdominal aorta may identify the presence of an aneurysm.

The liver is in the upper right-hand portion of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm, and on top of the stomach, right kidney, and intestines. The liver is shaped like a cone and weighs about 3 pounds. This organ aids in digestion and removes waste products and worn-out cells from the blood.

An ultrasound screening of the liver may identify the presence of cysts, masses and or enlargements.

This organ aids in the digestive process and stores waste produced in the liver. Approximately 10-15% of the adult population has gallstones with approximately 1 million cases presenting each year. Gallstones are the most common gastrointestinal disorder in the United States that require hospitalization.

An ultrasound screening may identify the presence of some forms of calcifications (stones).