The CIMT is the thickness of the inner lining of the neck arteries (carotid arteries) that carry blood to the brain and is a marker of the extent of artery clogging plaque (atherosclerosis) throughout the body. CIMT is measured using sophisticated ultrasound equipment and interpretation algorithms in a painless, completely safe and radiation-free manner. It is recommended for patients with an "intermediate risk" of developing a heart attack, according to the Framingham Risk Score. An abnormal result in comparison to age and gender-matched normal controls suggests and increase risk of heart attack, and permits the treating physician to introduce lifestyle and pharmacological interventions to reduce the risk.

Indicated in most patients in the intermediate Framingham risk classification to rule in or out the presence of asymptomatic atherosclerosis to better refine vascular risk and guide treatment decisions. May be indicated in select "low risk" patients who have a strong family history of premature vascular disease to better refine their "true" risk.

Not indicated in low risk individuals with no risk factors. Not indicated in patients with established vascular disease. Not indicated as an evaluative took for carotid stenosis. Not indicated for the evaluation of "chronic cerebral venous stenosis" in patients with Multiple Sclerosis.