A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound is considered the first-line imaging test for assessing the carotid arteries because it provides real-time information about both the arteries themselves and the blood flowing through them. It is safe, painless, does not use radiation and provides highly accurate information about blood flow and narrowing of the carotid arteries.

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A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound is commonly used to investigate carotid artery disease, narrowing of the carotid arteries (carotid artery stenosis), plaque build-up, reduced blood flow to the brain and other conditions that may increase the risk of a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). It is also frequently used to monitor known carotid artery disease over time.

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In some cases, further investigations such as a CT angiogram (CTA), MR angiogram (MRA) or other vascular imaging may be recommended if more detailed information is needed or if treatment is being planned. If this is the case, your healthcare professional will explain the next steps and advise on the most appropriate investigation for your individual circumstances.

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At ScanMe, we are committed to providing high-quality private Carotid Duplex Ultrasound services in Ireland, with clinics in Mullingar, Longford and Sligo, helping patients access expert vascular imaging without unnecessary delays.

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Many patients choose a private Carotid Duplex Ultrasound for fast access to diagnostic imaging. In many cases, you can arrange a private scan without first seeing your GP, although a referral may be recommended depending on your symptoms and medical history.

Your GP, consultant or another healthcare professional may also refer you for a Carotid Duplex Ultrasound if you have experienced symptoms such as dizziness, a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), stroke symptoms, or if there is concern about reduced blood flow to the brain, a blocked carotid artery or narrowing of the carotid arteries.

If you are unsure whether a Carotid Duplex Ultrasound is the right scan for your symptoms, our team at ScanMe will be happy to advise you and help you arrange an appointment at our Mullingar, Longford or Sligo clinic.

A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

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The exact length of the appointment can vary depending on whether additional images or blood flow measurements are required to fully assess your carotid arteries. Your sonographer will take the time needed to obtain clear, high-quality images, which are then reviewed and reported by a Consultant Radiologist.

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Patients attending ScanMe in Mullingar, Longford and Sligo can expect a professional, patient-focused experience from arrival through to the completion of their scan.

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No. A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive and generally painless examination.

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Most patients only feel the ultrasound probe moving gently over the skin on either side of the neck. The sonographer may apply light pressure to obtain clear images of the carotid arteries, but this should not be painful. If your neck is already tender, you may experience mild discomfort for a short time, but the examination is usually very well tolerated.

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There are no needles, injections or recovery time required, and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately after your appointment.

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At ScanMe, our experienced sonographers will ensure you are as comfortable as possible throughout your appointment and will explain each step of the examination as it takes place.

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Preparing for a Carotid Duplex Ultrasound is simple and there is usually very little you need to do before your appointment.

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You do not usually need to fast before a Carotid Duplex Ultrasound and you can eat, drink and continue taking your usual medications unless you have been advised otherwise by your doctor. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing with a loose-fitting or open-neck top, as the sonographer will need access to the sides of your neck during the examination. It is also helpful to avoid wearing necklaces or bulky scarves on the day of your appointment.

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If you have any questions before your Carotid Duplex Ultrasound, the ScanMe team will be happy to explain how to prepare and what to expect during your visit.

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When you arrive at your ScanMe clinic in Mullingar, Longford or Sligo, one of our experienced sonographers will explain the procedure and answer any questions before your Carotid Duplex Ultrasound begins.

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You will be asked to lie comfortably on an examination couch while ultrasound gel is applied to your neck. The sonographer will gently move a handheld ultrasound probe over both sides of your neck to examine the carotid arteries and assess blood flow using Doppler ultrasound technology.

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During the scan, you may hear a gentle whooshing sound created by blood flowing through your carotid arteries. Your sonographer may ask you to turn your head slightly to obtain the clearest possible images. Throughout the examination, they will explain what they are doing and ensure you remain as comfortable as possible.

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A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes. Once the scan is complete, the gel will be wiped away and you can return to your normal daily activities immediately. Your images will then be reviewed and reported by a Consultant Radiologist.

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A Carotid Duplex Ultrasound is a specialised ultrasound scan that examines the carotid arteries, the two major blood vessels located on either side of your neck that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain.

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The scan combines two types of ultrasound technology. Traditional ultrasound creates detailed images of the carotid arteries, while Doppler ultrasound measures how blood flows through them. Together, these techniques allow your sonographer to assess the structure of the arteries, identify any narrowing (carotid artery stenosis), plaque build-up (atherosclerosis) or blockages, and evaluate how well blood is reaching the brain.

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Because a Carotid Duplex Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, it is a safe, painless and non-invasive examination. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as dizziness, transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), stroke symptoms or to assess the risk of stroke in patients with vascular disease or cardiovascular risk factors.