Carotid Doppler scan
Quick answer: A carotid Doppler is an ultrasound of the main arteries in the neck that shows blood flow and any narrowing or fatty plaque. Doctors order it after a stroke or mini-stroke, for some dizziness or fainting, or to check people at high risk of artery disease.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 20 to 30 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You lie on your back with your head turned slightly away from the side being scanned
- 2Gel is put on the side of your neck
- 3The probe is moved from the collarbone up towards the jaw along each artery
- 4Both sides of the neck are scanned, and you may hear the flow sounds
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A sonologist or radiologist reports on the scan, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
The scan can show fatty plaque on the artery walls and how much it narrows the artery, reduced or turbulent flow, or a blocked artery. The amount of narrowing helps decide whether treatment beyond medicines is needed.
Who usually has this test
People who have had a stroke or mini-stroke (TIA), people with a noise heard over the neck artery, and some people at high risk of artery disease.
Risks and aftercare
No radiation is involved and there is no recovery time; the probe may press a little on the neck, and you can drive and go back to normal activities.
Names and options
Also called: carotid Doppler, neck artery Doppler, carotid ultrasound
Listed by the hospital as
- CAROTID DOPPLER
Questions about this test
What is a TIA, and why does it need a carotid scan?
A TIA or mini-stroke is a short episode of stroke symptoms that clears within hours. A carotid Doppler checks whether a narrowed neck artery could be the cause, as this raises the risk of a full stroke.
Can a carotid Doppler show plaque?
Yes, it shows fatty plaque on the artery wall and estimates how narrow the artery has become. This helps your doctor plan treatment.
Is a carotid Doppler the same as a thyroid scan?
No, both are neck ultrasounds but they look at different things. The carotid scan checks blood flow in the neck arteries, and a thyroid scan looks at the gland.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.