Carotid ultrasound in primary and secondary prevention of stroke

Imaging methods play an important role in management of patients with acute stroke or chronic cerebrovascular disease. Carotid ultrasound is a widely used method, thanks to its nonvasivity and wide accessibility. This review article deals with indications for carotid ultrasound examination in primary and secondary prevention. It presents current criteria for carotid stenosis assessment: calculation of the percentage of the stenosis, velocity criteria and the morphology of the plaque. Also accuracy of the method is analyzed. In conclusion, carotid ultrasound is a reliable diagnostic tool that has an important role in the diagnosis and grading of the carotid stenosis.