Which test is used to assess carotid blockage in suspected OIS?

Which test is used to assess carotid blockage in suspected OIS?

• A. Carotid Doppler
• B. Fundus photography
• C. Slit‑lamp examination
• D. Intraocular pressure measurement

Answer: (A)

In ocular ischemic syndrome, the problem often lies in reduced blood flow from the carotid arteries to the eye. The best test to assess this blockage is carotid Doppler ultrasound because it directly evaluates the carotid arteries for narrowing (stenosis) and plaques and measures blood flow velocities. This noninvasive study estimates how severe the narrowing is, helping determine if the carotid circulation is likely contributing to ocular hypoperfusion and guiding management decisions such as vascular intervention. Fundus photography documents retinal findings but doesn’t tell you about carotid patency. Slit-lamp examination and intraocular pressure measurement focus on the anterior eye structures and glaucoma risks, not on carotid blood flow.

In ocular ischemic syndrome, the problem often lies in reduced blood flow from the carotid arteries to the eye. The best test to assess this blockage is carotid Doppler ultrasound because it directly evaluates the carotid arteries for narrowing (stenosis) and plaques and measures blood flow velocities. This noninvasive study estimates how severe the narrowing is, helping determine if the carotid circulation is likely contributing to ocular hypoperfusion and guiding management decisions such as vascular intervention.

Fundus photography documents retinal findings but doesn’t tell you about carotid patency. Slit-lamp examination and intraocular pressure measurement focus on the anterior eye structures and glaucoma risks, not on carotid blood flow.