Carotid Ultrasound Use Is Increasing in Older Americans

In a new study, researchers examined the growing use of carotid artery duplex ultrasound in the U.S. Medicare population. Investigators analyzed Medicare Part B billing data for this procedure and determined which specialties are responsible for changes in use.

Between 2000 and 2007, the number of carotid artery duplex ultrasounds performed in Medicare beneficiaries rose by 43% –– from 36 to 51 procedures per 1000 beneficiaries annually. The relative increase in billing claims during this 7-year period was 10% for diagnostic radiologists, 57% for vascular surgeons, and 133% for cardiologists. In 2000, 37% of carotid ultrasound claims were submitted by vascular surgeons and cardiologists; by 2007, this proportion had jumped to 51%.