Private Carotid Doppler Ultrasound Scan London
A detailed Doppler assessment of both carotid and vertebral arteries, detecting plaque, stenosis and measuring Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) to help quantify your stroke risk. No preparation required. Written report within 24 hours.
No preparation required · No GP referral · Report within 24 hours · Not sure which scan you need?
Medically reviewed by Pedram Aghaei & Dr Babak Soleimanpour · review details
At a Glance
- Scan Type
- Carotid Doppler Duplex
- Duration
- 20 min
- Preparation
- None required
- Radiation
- None
- Referral
- Not required
- Arteries Assessed
- Carotid (CCA/ICA/ECA) + vertebral
- Imaging Modality
- Colour & spectral Doppler duplex
- Includes
- CIMT measurement
- Carotid Doppler
- £249
- Results
- Same-day verbal · 24h report
A private carotid Doppler ultrasound scan at London Private Ultrasound costs £249. This painless, radiation-free scan examines the carotid arteries in your neck for narrowing (stenosis) and plaque build-up, key factors in assessing your risk of stroke. It also measures Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT), an early marker of cardiovascular risk, and checks blood flow in the vertebral arteries that supply the back of the brain. No GP referral needed, same-day appointments, verbal report same time and written report within 24 hours.
What this scan can assess
- Narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries
- Plaque (atherosclerosis) build-up in the neck arteries
- Reduced or turbulent blood flow to the brain
- Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) — an early marker of arterial ageing and cardiovascular risk
- Blood flow in the vertebral arteries supplying the back of the brain
- Factors contributing to stroke and TIA risk
- Baseline carotid health for monitoring over time
Our Carotid & Stroke Health Check adds a cardiovascular blood panel and stroke-risk screening, for £779.
Carotid Doppler measurements — what they mean
| Measurement | What we assess | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| CIMT / IMT | Thickness of the inner carotid artery wall. | Can support assessment of early arterial ageing and subclinical atherosclerosis when combined with risk factors. |
| Plaque assessment | Location, size, surface and type of plaque, including calcified, mixed or soft plaque patterns. | Helps identify atherosclerosis and whether plaque is affecting blood flow. Plaque characterisation carries important predictive value — soft, heterogeneous or ulcerated plaque is associated with higher stroke risk than smooth, calcified plaque. |
| PSV / EDV | Peak systolic and end-diastolic velocity through the carotid arteries. | Used with imaging appearances to estimate the degree of narrowing. |
| ICA / CCA ratio | Velocity ratio between the internal and common carotid arteries. | Supports stenosis grading and helps standardise interpretation. |
| Vertebral artery flow | Direction, symmetry and velocity of vertebral artery flow. | Relevant where symptoms include dizziness, balance disturbance, posterior circulation concern or suspected subclavian steal pattern. |
| NASCET stenosis grading | Percentage narrowing where stenosis is seen. | Helps guide whether routine GP follow-up, specialist review or urgent vascular assessment may be needed. |
Conditions a carotid Doppler can help assess
Your carotid arteries are the main highways carrying blood to your brain — together they supply around 80% of the brain’s blood flow. A carotid Doppler scan is used in the assessment of several conditions affecting the blood supply to the brain.
Carotid Artery Stenosis
Narrowing of the carotid arteries caused by atherosclerotic plaque, which can restrict blood flow to the brain and raise stroke risk.
Atherosclerosis
Build-up of fatty plaque within the artery wall. CIMT measurement can detect early arterial ageing before significant narrowing develops.
Stroke & TIA Risk
Assessment of factors contributing to stroke and transient ischaemic attack (mini-stroke), helping guide preventive care.
Carotid Plaque
Identification and characterisation of plaque, including its extent and effect on blood flow through the artery.
Vertebral Artery Flow
Assessment of the vertebral arteries supplying the back of the brain, relevant to dizziness, balance and posterior circulation.
Post-Surgical Surveillance
Monitoring after carotid surgery or stenting, where periodic assessment of the arteries is advised.
A complete bilateral carotid assessment, under one price
Real-time B-mode and colour Doppler imaging of all major neck vessels — both sides in one appointment. No radiation, no contrast, no injection.
- Common carotid arteries (bilateral)
- Internal carotid arteries (ICA)
- External carotid arteries (ECA)
- Carotid bifurcations (both sides)
- Vertebral arteries (bilateral)
- Atherosclerotic plaques — size & extent
- Plaque morphology (soft, calcified, mixed)
- Plaque surface (smooth, irregular, ulcerated)
- Degree of stenosis (% — NASCET criteria)
- Intima-media thickness (IMT)
- Peak systolic velocity (PSV)
- End-diastolic velocity (EDV)
- ICA/CCA velocity ratio
- Flow direction and turbulence
- Near-occlusion or total occlusion
- Carotid dissection or aneurysm
Carotid stenosis severity classification — NASCET criteria
| Stenosis Grade | % Narrowing | PSV (cm/s) | ICA/CCA Ratio | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 0% | <125 | <2.0 | No significant disease |
| Mild | <50% | <125 | <2.0 | Medical management; lifestyle modification |
| Moderate | 50–69% | 125–230 | 2.0–4.0 | Close monitoring; medical optimisation; specialist review |
| Severe | 70–99% | >230 | >4.0 | Urgent vascular surgery referral; endarterectomy considered |
| Near-occlusion | >99% | Variable | Variable | Emergency vascular assessment required |
Classification based on NASCET (North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial) criteria — the international standard for carotid stenosis grading. Results interpreted in full clinical context by our specialist vascular scientists.
About our velocity criteria: We grade carotid stenosis using NASCET criteria, applying Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound (SRU) consensus velocity thresholds validated against angiography. A peak systolic velocity (PSV) of ≥125 cm/s corresponds to ≥50% stenosis (sensitivity ~96%), and a PSV of ≥200 cm/s corresponds to ≥70% stenosis (sensitivity ~90%, specificity ~94%). Velocity findings are always interpreted alongside imaging appearances and the ICA/CCA ratio.
What’s included
- Doppler ultrasound of both carotid arteries
- Colour and spectral Doppler flow assessment
- Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) measurement
- Assessment of vertebral artery flow and direction
- Measurement of any narrowing or plaque
- Same-day verbal findings from an Ultrasound Consultant
- Written diagnostic report within 24 hours
What our carotid Doppler assessment covers
Our Accredited Vascular Scientists perform a thorough, systematic assessment of the neck arteries using colour and spectral Doppler ultrasound.
Each scan systematically assesses the following vessels in both sides of the neck:
- CCA — Common Carotid Artery
- ICA — Internal Carotid Artery
- ECA — External Carotid Artery
- Carotid bifurcation — where the artery divides
- Vertebral arteries — flow & direction
- CIMT — Carotid Intima-Media Thickness
Where narrowing is identified, the degree of stenosis is graded using recognised criteria (we use NASCET criteria) based on blood-flow velocities and direct measurement. Findings are documented in a written report, with measurements and any areas of concern clearly explained.
How to prepare for your scan
- No special preparation needed — you can eat, drink and take medications as normal.
- Wear comfortable clothing with easy access to the neck; you may be asked to remove necklaces.
- Arrive a few minutes early to complete a brief health questionnaire.
- Bring any relevant information — previous scan reports or a list of your medications, if available.
- Allow around 20 minutes for your visit.
- See our full scan preparation guide and travel & parking information.
What to expect during your carotid scan
Welcome & brief review
You’ll be welcomed and asked about your symptoms, medical history and any vascular risk factors.
Comfortable positioning
You’ll lie comfortably on your back with your head slightly tilted. A small amount of warm gel is applied to the neck.
The Doppler scan
An Accredited Vascular Scientist moves a handheld probe over each side of your neck, capturing real-time images and blood-flow measurements of the carotid and vertebral arteries. It’s completely painless.
Same-day findings
Your scientist explains what they’ve found straight away and answers your questions.
Written report in 24 hours
You receive a clear written diagnostic report within 24 hours, suitable for sharing with your GP or a specialist if onward care is needed.
What happens if your carotid scan is abnormal?
A clear onward pathway is important. Your result is explained in plain English, and your written report is suitable for your NHS GP, private GP, cardiologist, neurologist, vascular surgeon or insurer.
Mild plaque or mild narrowing
We explain the finding, document plaque and flow measurements, and advise GP or cardiovascular risk-factor review where appropriate — including blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and smoking status.
Moderate or significant stenosis
Your report grades the narrowing and includes key Doppler measurements. Depending on symptoms and severity, onward review with your GP, cardiology, neurology or vascular surgery may be advised.
Urgent or concerning findings
If we identify severe stenosis, near-occlusion, occlusion, suspected dissection, abnormal vertebral flow or recent TIA-related concern, we provide urgent advice and a referral letter where clinically appropriate.
Active stroke symptoms
A private scan should not delay emergency care. Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, speech disturbance, sudden visual loss or new one-sided neurological symptoms require immediate 999 assessment.
When should you book?
Stroke / TIA Risk
You have risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or smoking.
Mini-Stroke Symptoms
You’ve had transient symptoms such as brief weakness, slurred speech or vision changes (seek urgent care if active).
Family History
A family history of stroke or vascular disease.
Reassurance
Peace of mind about your stroke risk and neck-artery health.
Bruit Noted
A clinician has heard a ‘bruit’ (sound) over your neck artery.
Cardiovascular Disease
Known heart or vascular disease where carotid assessment is useful.
Why carotid assessment matters, the evidence
Carotid ultrasound and CIMT measurement are well-studied tools in cardiovascular and stroke-risk assessment.
Carotid artery disease accounts for approximately 20–25% of all ischaemic strokes, and carotid duplex ultrasound is the primary non-invasive tool for detecting it.
European Carotid Surgery Trialists’ Collaborative Group; NICE NG128 (2022).In symptomatic patients with 70–99% stenosis, carotid endarterectomy reduces the risk of subsequent stroke by approximately 65% at 5 years.
MRC European Carotid Surgery Trial (ECST). Lancet 1998;351:1379–87.Increased carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) is independently associated with ischaemic stroke — a relative risk of approximately 1.8 per 0.1mm increase in IMT.
Lorenz MW et al. Circulation 2007;115:459–67.Performed by an experienced vascular sonographer, carotid duplex has a sensitivity of 89–95% for detecting ≥70% stenosis and a specificity of 85–92% for excluding significant disease.
Blakeley DD et al. Carotid artery duplex sonography. AJR 2003.Note: This summary is for general patient education and references established clinical evidence. It is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Specific findings and their implications will be explained by our clinical team in the context of your own assessment.
Why choose a private carotid scan?
The NHS provides excellent stroke care, but access to a carotid scan usually requires a referral and may involve a wait. A private scan offers a faster, more flexible route for reassurance or early assessment.
| NHS route | London Private Ultrasound | |
|---|---|---|
| GP referral | Usually required | Not required — self-refer |
| Waiting time | Can be several weeks | Same-day / next-day |
| Appointment times | Weekday hours | 7 days, 9am–7pm |
| CIMT measurement | Not routinely offered | Included as standard |
| Written report | Variable | Within 24 hours |
A private scan is ideal for reassurance, early screening or fast assessment. If a serious problem is found, our report is formatted to support onward NHS or specialist referral — private imaging complements rather than replaces ongoing NHS or specialist care.
Your vascular ultrasound team
Vascular scans are performed and reported by our team of Accredited Vascular Scientists (AVS) — fully-registered clinicians experienced in vascular ultrasound — under doctor-led clinical governance from our GMC-registered Medical Director.
Mr Pedram Aghaei
Ultrasound Consultant · Accredited Vascular Scientist
BMUS:20702 · SVT:679 · SOR:93290
Mr Reza Farahmandfar
Lead Vascular Sonographer · Carotid Duplex Specialist
MSc (Vascular Medical Ultrasound) · MSc (General Medical & Gynaecology Ultrasound) · PGD (Breast Medical Ultrasound) · SoR 99489 · SVT 0819
Dr Reza Salehi
Doctor · Radiology & Ultrasound Interest
GMC Registered
Dr Babak Soleimanpour
Medical Director · GP
MD · MRCGP · DRCOG · GMC: 6060555
Mrs Arezoo Selahi
CQC Champion · Nurse Prescriber
NMC Registered
Mr Ali Aghaei MPharm
Pharmacist Prescriber
GPhC Registered · Medication review for packages
Clinical governance: Mrs Arezoo Selahi (CQC Champion · Nurse Prescriber · NMC Registered) oversees clinical standards. For health-check packages, medication review is supported by Mr Ali Aghaei MPharm (GPhC Registered) and our Medical Director Dr Babak Soleimanpour (GMC: 6060555).
Frequently asked questions
How much does this scan cost?
At LPU, this scan is £249. Every scan includes a written diagnostic report within 24 hours.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can self-refer and book directly online, by phone on 020 7101 3377, or via WhatsApp. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.
Is the scan painful or does it use radiation?
No. Doppler ultrasound is completely painless and uses no radiation — only sound waves. There are no known risks or side effects.
When will I get my results?
Your vascular scientist or ultrasound specialist explains the findings immediately after the scan. A written diagnostic report is typically provided within 24 hours, suitable for sharing with your GP or a specialist if onward care is needed.
Who performs the scan?
Your scan is performed and reported by one of our Vascular Scientists such as Mr Pedram Aghaei or Mr Reza Farahmandfar, all fully-registered clinicians experienced in vascular ultrasound.
What is CIMT and why is it measured?
Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) is a precise measurement of the thickness of the inner two layers of the carotid artery wall. It is one of the earliest detectable signs of arterial ageing and atherosclerosis — often before any narrowing appears — making it a valuable early marker of cardiovascular and stroke risk. We measure CIMT as a standard part of our carotid Doppler scan.
Do you check the vertebral arteries as well?
Yes. As well as the carotid arteries, we assess the vertebral arteries, which run up through the neck to supply the back of the brain (the brainstem and cerebellum). We check the direction and quality of blood flow in these arteries, which is important in the overall assessment of the brain’s blood supply and conditions affecting balance, dizziness or posterior circulation.
How accurate is carotid ultrasound for detecting stenosis?
Performed by an experienced vascular sonographer, carotid duplex ultrasound has a sensitivity of 89–95% for detecting stenosis ≥70% (NASCET) and a specificity of 85–92% for excluding significant stenosis. For near-occlusion or occlusion, additional imaging (CT or MR angiography) is typically recommended. Accuracy is operator-dependent, which is why all our carotid scans are performed by vascular sonographers with dedicated vascular qualifications.
What is intima-media thickness (IMT) and why does it matter?
IMT is the combined thickness of the inner two layers of the carotid artery wall, measured in millimetres by high-resolution ultrasound. It is an established marker of subclinical atherosclerosis; increased IMT is independently associated with a higher risk of stroke (relative risk approximately 1.8 per 0.1mm increase) and heart attack. It can identify arterial disease before symptoms or narrowing develop, and is useful for monitoring response to treatment.
How does carotid ultrasound compare to CT or MR angiography?
Carotid duplex ultrasound is the cost-effective first-line investigation: no radiation, no contrast, real-time assessment, IMT measurement, plaque characterisation and immediate results. CT angiography gives an overview of the full circulation and assesses calcified plaque well; MR angiography offers excellent soft-tissue contrast. CTA or MRA is typically reserved for inconclusive ultrasound, suspected intracranial extension, or pre-surgical planning.
Can a carotid ultrasound detect stroke risk?
Yes. It is the primary non-invasive tool for detecting carotid artery disease, which accounts for roughly 20–25% of ischaemic strokes. It identifies significant stenosis, vulnerable (soft) plaque and increased IMT. Early detection allows timely intervention — in symptomatic patients with 70–99% stenosis, carotid endarterectomy reduces 5-year stroke risk by approximately 65%.
Can a carotid ultrasound diagnose an active stroke?
No. It assesses the neck arteries for plaque, narrowing and blood-flow changes; it does not diagnose an active stroke and must not delay emergency treatment. If you have sudden face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, sudden visual loss or new one-sided numbness, call 999 immediately.
Is this the same as a neck artery scan?
Yes. Patients often search for this test as a neck artery scan, carotid artery scan, carotid ultrasound, carotid duplex or stroke risk ultrasound. At London Private Ultrasound, the scan assesses both carotid arteries and includes vertebral artery flow assessment.
Can I use the report for my GP, specialist or insurer?
Yes. Your written report is suitable to share with your NHS GP, private GP, cardiologist, neurologist, vascular surgeon or insurance provider. It includes the vessels assessed, plaque description, key Doppler measurements, stenosis grading and clear clinical comments.
Who performs the medical review and content governance of this page?
This patient information page was prepared with AI-assisted editorial support and reviewed for clinical accuracy by:
- Pedram Aghaei — Vascular Scientist, SVT reg. SVT00679 · Registered Clinical Technologist, RCT reg. CT04905
- Dr Babak Soleimanpour — MD, MRCGP, DRCOG · Medical Director / GMC-registered GP
Reviewed: 23/05/2026 — Next review due: 30/11/2026
This information is for general patient education and does not replace a medical consultation. If your symptoms or scan findings need further assessment, our clinical team will explain your results clearly and advise on suitable next steps, including GP, specialist or urgent referral where appropriate.
London Private Ultrasound (Ultrasound London Limited) is registered with the Care Quality Commission and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
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Why choose London Private Ultrasound
In the heart of London’s Harley Street medical district, we combine specialist vascular expertise with fast, patient-focused care.
Harley Street District
Located on Welbeck Street in the world-renowned Harley Street medical area, synonymous with the highest standards of private healthcare.
Accredited Vascular Scientists
Scans performed and reported by experienced, fully-registered Accredited Vascular Scientists (AVS) — not technicians.
Same-Day, No Referral
Self-refer and book directly, with same-day appointments often available 7 days a week at both clinics.
Fast, Clear Results
Verbal findings on the day and a written diagnostic report within 24 hours, explained in plain English.
Trusted Since 2012
Over 35,000 patients cared for, with 4.8★ on Google from more than 1,250 reviews.
CQC & ICO Regulated
Fully regulated by the Care Quality Commission and registered with the ICO for your safety and privacy.
Safe, regulated, professional care
London Private Ultrasound (Ultrasound London Limited) operates to the highest clinical and data-protection standards.
CQC Regulated
Registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission, England’s independent health & social care regulator.
ICO Registered
Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office for the safe, compliant handling of your personal data.
Doctor-Led Clinical Governance
Clinical standards are overseen by our Medical Director, Dr Babak Soleimanpour (GMC-registered), with GMC-registered doctors involved in clinical governance and medical review.
Accredited Vascular Scientists
Scans performed and reported by fully-registered Accredited Vascular Scientists (AVS).
Established 2012
Trusted by over 35,000 patients across our Central London and St Albans clinics.
Visit us or get in touch
Same-day appointments are often available at both clinics. Our Central London clinic on Welbeck Street sits in the Harley Street medical district — convenient for Marylebone, Mayfair, Fitzrovia and wider London — while our St Albans clinic serves Hertfordshire and North London. Our reception team is happy to help you choose the right scan. Prefer to message? You can reach us on WhatsApp or Botim on +44 7414 165515.
Booking made simple
From first enquiry to your written report, we make private vascular imaging quick, easy and secure.
Book Your Way
Reserve by phone, WhatsApp or message — whichever suits you. No GP referral needed.
Same-Day Appointments
Often available 7 days a week, including weekends, at both clinics.
Fast, Secure Results
Verbal findings on the day and a written report within 24 hours, shared securely.
Your Data, Protected
ICO-registered and fully GDPR-compliant handling of your personal information.
Health insights from our specialists
Our clinical team regularly publishes patient-friendly articles on conditions, symptoms and how ultrasound aids diagnosis.
The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
Simple, practical steps to prepare for your scan and what to expect on the day.
Read article → ConditionCarotid Stenosis and Narrowing Explained
What carotid stenosis is, why it matters, and how ultrasound detects narrowing of the neck arteries.
Read article → Stroke PreventionHow Doppler Ultrasound Can Help Prevent CVA and TIA
How carotid Doppler imaging supports the early detection and prevention of stroke and mini-stroke.
Read article →Carotid Doppler Ultrasound Scan — £249
Same-day · Report in 24h · No GP referral · CQC regulated
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