Private Carotid Doppler Ultrasound Scan in London

You may need a carotid Doppler ultrasound scan if you have any of the following risk factors for stroke:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• A family history of stroke
• A previous stroke or
• transient ischemic attack (TIA)

The scan can also be used to monitor the condition of your carotid arteries if you have already had a stroke or TIA.

Its main aim is to gauge the blood flow in the carotid arteries and uncover any blockages or constrictions that could precipitate a stroke.

he scan is performed by a sonographer , who is a healthcare professional who specializes in using ultrasound. The sonographer will apply a small amount of gel to your neck and then place a transducer on your skin. The transducer sends out sound waves and receives the echoes that bounce back. These echoes are used to create images of the carotid arteries.

The scan usually takes about 30 minutes.

What are the risks of a carotid Doppler ultrasound scan?

There are no known risks associated with a carotid Doppler ultrasound scan.

What are the findings of a carotid Doppler ultrasound scan?

The findings of a carotid Doppler ultrasound scan can vary depending on the individual’s health. However, some of the common findings include:

• Narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries
• Increased blood flow velocity through the carotid arteries
• Abnormalities in the blood flow pattern

The treatment options for carotid artery disease depend on the severity of the narrowing or blockage. Some of the treatment options include:

• Medications to lower blood pressure and cholesterol
• Carotid endarterectomy, which is a surgery to remove the plaque that is narrowing the artery
• Carotid angioplasty and stenting, which is a minimally invasive procedure to insert a stent into the artery to widen it

If carotid artery disease is not treated, it can lead to a stroke. A stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. Strokes can cause a variety of problems, including paralysis, speech problems, and difficulty thinking.

FAQs

Absolutely not! This is a completely pain-free, non-invasive examination. You might sense a slight pressure from the transducer, but it’s mostly a breeze for our patients.

Generally, there’s no special prep required. However, it’s best to avoid neck jewellery and do let our team know if you have any surgical marks on your neck.

We prioritize prompt service. You can typically expect results within 24 to 48 hours, but your sonographer will give you a precise timeline.