ABSTRACT
This chapter is organized in the following manner. Several sections are dedicated toward a review of the physics and technology behind ultrasonic scanners aimed mainly at imaging the carotid artery. Some material is included that covers the basics of ultrasonic imaging; the goal is not to be comprehensive but rather give enough information and references for the reader to pursue topics of interest as desired. Typical specifications of these scanners are described in relation to the carotid anatomy being imaged. The following sections cover the carotid anatomy and pathologies often diagnosed by ultrasound and the role of the imagers in these areas. Finally, a section is dedicated to the several advanced topics, which are currently being researched but which may have not yet reached the clinic.
