Ultrasound screening for asymptomatic carotid stenosis in subjects with calcifications in the area of the carotid arteries on panoramic radiographs: a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Directed ultrasonic screening for carotid stenosis is cost-effective in populations with > 5% prevalence of the diagnosis. Occasionally, calcifications in the area of the carotid arteries are incidentally detected on odontological panoramic radiographs. We aimed to determine if directed screening for carotid stenosis with ultrasound is indicated in individuals with such calcifications.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Carotid ultrasound examinations were performed on consecutive persons, with findings of calcifications in the area of the carotid arteries on panoramic radiography that were otherwise eligible for asymptomatic carotid endarterectomy.

Results

Calcification in the area of the carotid arteries was seen in 176 of 1182 persons undergoing p

SUBMITTER: Johansson EP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3161947 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature