PVI Physician Vascular Interpretation Exam
Question 1. Which velocity parameter is most commonly used to grade internal
carotid artery (ICA) stenosis in carotid duplex ultrasound?
A) Peak systolic velocity (PSV)
B) End diastolic velocity (EDV)
C) Mean velocity
D) Time-averaged maximum velocity
Answer: A
Explanation: PSV is the primary parameter for grading ICA stenosis because it
correlates well with the degree of luminal narrowing.
Question 2. Which plaque characteristic on carotid ultrasound is most associated
with an increased risk of embolization?
A) Smooth, homogeneous plaque
B) Calcified plaque
C) Ulcerated plaque with heterogeneous echogenicity
D) Thin, fibrous cap
Answer: C
Explanation: Ulcerated, heterogeneous plaques are unstable and more likely to
cause embolic events.
Question 3. In the presence of contralateral ICA occlusion, how might the
waveform in the patent ICA change?
A) Decreased peak systolic velocity
