Overview
Auscultation of the carotids may identify a carotid bruit due to turbulent flow, or radiation of a murmur.
How to Perform
- Auscultate within the triangle bound by the mandible, sternocleidomastoid and thyroid cartilage. Ask the patient to hold their breath.
A hum will be heard normally, which is due to normal jugular venous flow.
Carotid Bruit
Listen For
- An abnormal systolic sound over the carotid artery due to turbulent flow.
Causes of Carotid Bruit
- Carotid artery stenosis
- Transmitted murmur of aortic stenosis
Next Page
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------