Carotid Ultrasound in Birmingham
Book Your Private Carotid Ultrasound Scans in our Birmingham Ultrasound Clinic.
Carotid Ultrasound Birmingham
A Private Carotid Ultrasound in Birmingham, may also be known as a carotid duplex ultrasound, is a non-invasive and painless scan that uses ultrasound and Doppler to assess the flow of blood towards the brain and carotid arteries in your neck. The scan can measure blood-flow velocity and identify plaque, narrowing or blockage.
Here are the key Reasons to have a carotid ultrasound:
- Assessing Blood Flow: Carotid ultrasound examines blood flow through the carotid arteries.
- Evaluating Artery Wall Thickness: It also evaluates the thickness of the carotid artery wall.
- Detecting Clots: The procedure checks for the presence of clots.
- Risk Assessment: Carotid ultrasound helps assess the risk of stroke by identifying blocked or narrowed carotid arteries.
Remember, early detection and management of carotid artery issues can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. If you have concerns or need an evaluation, consult your healthcare provider and consider a carotid ultrasound.
ACCREDITED & TRUSTED
Our Carotid Ultrasound Scan
At Universal Ultrasound Diagnostics, we are dedicated to providing exceptional private carotid ultrasound scans at our carotid ultrasound clinic in Birmingham, UK. We offer flexible and convenient dates and times that suit your needs and preferences.
With our cutting-edge Ultrasound systems and highly skilled, qualified and experienced staff, we deliver precise and reliable imaging for our private clients and referring practitioners in a comfortable and discreet setting.
Our commitment to utilising the latest technology ensures we consistently deliver the highest quality performance you can trust.
Carotid Duplex Scan Timeline & Cost
Scan Time
Scans take 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the circumstances.
Typical Cost
You can see our latest rates on our booking page.
Results
The sonographer will discuss any immediate findings with you, and the report and images will be emailed to you on the same day.
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) warning or urgent stroke
A carotid ultrasound is not an emergency assessment, if you develop sudden arm weakness, facial weakness, loss of vision, speech difficulties, TIA or other possible stroke symptoms call 999 immediately. Even if the symptoms improve, Do not wait for a private scan appointment.
What does a carotid ultrasound show, and what happens if narrowing is found?
A carotid ultrasound assesses the carotid arteries on both sides of your neck. These arteries carry blood towards the brain. The scan can identify plaque, assess whether an artery has narrowed and measure how blood is flowing through it.
The examination combines standard greyscale ultrasound with colour and spectral Doppler. Greyscale imaging shows the artery walls and any visible plaque. Doppler allows a sonographer to assess the direction, pattern and speed of the blood flow.
What is assessed during a carotid duplex scan?
During your examination in our Birmingham Clinic, our sonographer will usually assess:
- The carotid arteries on both sides of the neck.
- Whether plaque is present and where it is located.
- The pattern and speed of blood flow through the arteries.
- Whether any narrowing is causing disturbed or accelerated blood flow.
- Any relevant changes following previous carotid treatment, where this is within the scope of the examination.
The scan report will describe what was visible during your appointment. It may record no significant narrowing, plaque without significant obstruction, or a degree of narrowing that needs further clinical assessment.
If the scan identifies a finding requiring further assessment, the sonographer will explain the recommended next steps. With your consent, the report can be sent to your GP or another healthcare professional. Where a potentially urgent finding is identified, we will follow our clinical escalation and emergency referral procedures.
“A carotid duplex scan is about more than simply looking for a blockage. I assess the artery walls, the appearance and location of any plaque and the way blood is moving through each vessel. These findings help us understand whether any narrowing is affecting blood flow and whether clinical follow-up may be appropriate.”
Meet the Team
Lydia, our CQC Registered Manager and Operations Director, leads the team with empathy, faith and the utmost integrity. Her patient-focused approach helps to shape the culture of our service.
Our Consultant Radiologist Dr Moti, is supported by our advanced sonographer Andrew, combine clinical excellence with reassurance, giving our patients peace of mind and genuine warmth. Ali brings clarity to every scan and calm assurance, helping patients feel at ease, supported, and well-informed.
Behind the scenes, Emma, our practice manager, plays a pivotal role, ensuring every detail of the patients’ journey is seamless. She works alongside the Registered Manager to ensure quality assurance is maintained.
Carly, our Medical Administrative Officer, plays a crucial role in patient experience and works alongside the Registered Manager to maintain high-quality standards through promoting continuous improvement across the practice.
Together as a team, we are united by one purpose:
Our Mission - To deliver high-quality care with compassion that not only meets the patients’ expectations but goes over and beyond to exceed expectations.
Why Choose Our Private Ultrasound Scan Clinic?
1. Expert Sonographers: Our clinic boasts highly skilled and experienced sonographers specialising in Diagnostics and Pregnancy scans.
2. State-of-the-Art Technology: We use cutting-edge ultrasound systems for precise and reliable imaging.
3. Comfortable and Discreet Setting: Our clinic ensures a comfortable and confidential patient environment.
4. Flexible Appointments: We offer flexible dates and times to suit your convenience.
5. Prompt Results: Immediate findings are discussed during your appointment, and a detailed report and images are emailed to you the same day.
Our Mission, Vision & Values
We are committed to providing exceptional diagnostic imaging services through compassion, innovation and respect for every patient.
Mission
To be the most efficient and preferred diagnostic imaging centre that provides excellent quality care, that not only meets but goes above and beyond to exceed patients’ expectations.
Vision
Our vision is innovation as healthcare and technology are continuously evolving, which will enhance scanning techniques, image quality, accuracy, and efficiency and provide clearer insights into diseases.
We are proud to be a compassionate, caring, and respectful team. We do this by asking staff to work within our core values:
Compassionate
Compassionate by being inclusive, attentive, caring, respectful and showing kindness to staff, our patients, and their families.
Caring
Caring by going beyond compliance, performing above and beyond to improve our services and providing person-centred care by involving patients in their care, offering choices, and promoting dignity and privacy.
Respectful
Respectful by active listening, seeking to understand others, showing empathy for differences, apologising when things go wrong, being polite and showing gratitude to our staff and patients.
Carotid Scan Faqs
What Is Carotid Ultrasound?
Carotid ultrasound, or carotid duplex ultrasound, is a non-invasive and painless diagnostic imaging procedure. It utilises high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in your neck. These arteries play a crucial role in supplying oxygen-rich blood to your brain.
Here are the critical aspects of carotid ultrasound:
1. Purpose:
- Assessing Blood Flow: Carotid ultrasound examines blood flow through the carotid arteries.
- Evaluating Artery Wall Thickness: It also evaluates the thickness of the carotid artery wall.
- Detecting Clots: The procedure checks for the presence of clots.
- Risk Assessment: Carotid ultrasound helps assess the risk of stroke by identifying blocked or narrowed carotid arteries.
2. Procedure:
- A sonographer performs the test using a small, handheld transducer device.
- The transducer emits sound waves, which bounce off the carotid arteries and create real-time images.
- Doppler ultrasound is used to visualize blood flow within the arteries.
3. Why It’s Done:
- Narrowed Carotid Arteries: Carotid ultrasound is essential for detecting narrowed carotid arteries caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of stroke.
- Medical Conditions: Your healthcare provider may recommend carotid ultrasound if you have conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of stroke or heart disease.
- Unusual Sounds: Detection of unusual sounds (bruits) in the carotid arteries using a stethoscope may prompt further evaluation.
What are the symptoms of cartoid issues?
Common indications for performing this examination include:
- Pulsatile neck masses
- Amaurosis fugax
- Evaluation of suspected subclavian steal syndrome
- Transient ischemic attacks (TIA)
- Post-intervention follow-up e.g. carotid endarterectomy, stent or bypass
- Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)
- Follow-up of known carotid stenosis
- Carotid bruit
- Trauma in the distribution of the carotid artery e.g. suspected dissection, arteriovenous fistula or pseudoaneurysm
- Pre-operative assessment for high-risk patients e.g. coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG)
- Pre- maxillo-facial surgery
What can a Carotid Scan Detect?
Carotid ultrasound detects narrowed arteries, clots, and abnormal sounds. It helps prevent strokes by identifying risk factors.
Book your private carotid scan in Birmingham by clicking here
How do I prepare for a Carotid Scan?
- Wear a comfortable shirt with no collar or an open collar.
- Avoid wearing necklaces or dangling earrings.
- Confirm the exam time and location without team and arrive a little early.
Do I need to consent to a Carotid scan?
All patients must give their consent (permission) before undergoing a carotid examination. If they are unable to give consent themselves then a person with power of attorney will need to give consent on their behalf. Please ensure that the pre-treatment consent form is completed via the embedded link in your confirmation email before you attend the appointment. The scan will not go ahead if this form is not completed.
Are Carotid scans painful?
No, carotid ultrasound is painless. It involves no needles or radiation exposure.
What are the red and blue blobs on the ultrasound?
During the scan the sonographer may use a colour doppler to check blood flow in your tissue and organs. This will appear as blue and red blobs on the image and are nothing to be concerned about.
What happens during the scan?
Our sonographer will use a small, handheld device called a transducer. The transducer emits sound waves, which bounce off the carotid arteries and create real-time images. Doppler ultrasound is used to visualise blood flow within the arteries.
Can I request an interpreter?
For help preparing for your visit, arranging an interpreter, or accessing the practice, please send us a message via our website, email us, or call using the phone number on our website.
For a Carotid Scan Birmingham? You are in safe hands with Universal Ultrasound Diagnostics
GP and Self Referral Links
It's easy to book an appointment.
Universal Ultrasound Diagnostics offers an online booking system for easy appointment scheduling. There are options for walk-ins depending on availability: urgent scans within 5 days and routine scans within 14 days.
Appointment notifications and reminders are sent via email. The system supports self-check-in and online referrals by GPs.
We provide chaperones and interpreting services and allow family presence during pregnancy scans.
Our facility is accessible by public transport and has parking.
We allow family presence for most scans; however, children are not allowed in the room for certain scans. Please check your appointment confirmation email for clarity on our safety policy.
Our FAQ page answers a lot of general questions about your scan.
There is parking around The Green or Pay & Display at the side of The Bulls Head Pub, which charges £1 per hour (cash and card accepted). We are open 8 am to 11 pm Monday to Sunday.
Opening Times
Monday to Sunday
8 am – 11 pm
Location
10c The Green, Kings Norton, Birmingham, B38 8SD
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