Carotid artery assessment ultrasound scan
A safe check to know your arteries are working well. A carotid artery scan is a safe, painless test that checks the blood flow in the large arteries in your neck. These arteries carry blood from your heart to your brain. The scan helps detect narrowing or blockages that may increase your risk of stroke. Your scan is carried out by a specialist doctor. We can offer same-day results and clear, personalised advice-so you can feel confident and reassured.
- Price
- £300£50 deposit
- Appointment
- 20 to 30 minutesIncluding consultation
- Preparation
- See below
- Report
- Usually within 24 hours
Who it's for
When a scan can help
The carotid arteries supply blood to the brain. If these arteries become narrowed or blocked, your risk of stroke increases. A carotid artery scan is a simple way to check for early signs of reduced blood flow. It’s often used to assess stroke risk or to monitor known conditions like carotid artery narrowing or plaque build-up.
What it shows
Your scan may help detect
- Narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries
- Plaque build-up or hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
- Reduced blood flow to the brain
- Risk of stroke or mini-stroke (TIA)
- Irregularities in blood vessel structure
- Aneurysms or dissection (tears in the artery wall)
What to expect
Your appointment
Before
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, and take medication as normal. We recommend wearing a loose-fitting top or something with an open neck, as the scan is done on each side of your neck.
During
Your consultant applies a small amount of gel and moves a handheld probe over the area, explaining what they see as they go.
After
You can return to your day straight afterwards. Your consultant explains what they have seen before you leave.
Who reads your scan
Consultant radiologists, specialists in this area
Your report
Your consultant talks you through what the scan shows while you are still in the room.
A written report follows, usually within 24 hours. If anything needs a closer look, we can arrange MRI, CT, blood tests or a specialist referral.
Frequently asked questions
Why have a carotid artery scan?
The carotid arteries supply blood to the brain. If these arteries become narrowed or blocked, your risk of stroke increases. A carotid artery scan is a simple way to check for early signs of reduced blood flow. It’s often used to assess stroke risk or to monitor known conditions like carotid artery narrowing or plaque build-up.
What symptoms might prompt a carotid artery scan?
You may require or be referred for a carotid artery scan if you’ve experienced dizziness or light-headedness, blurred or temporary loss of vision, slurred speech, fainting, weakness or numbness on one side of the face or body, sudden loss of coordination or balance, a recent mini-stroke (TIA), ongoing high blood pressure or high cholesterol, a history of smoking or diabetes, or family history of stroke or vascular disease.
Is it safe?
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and has no known side effects. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is moved gently over the area. You can return to your day straight afterwards.
Enquire or book
Tell us what you would like looked at and we will come back to you with times. You do not need a referral.