Carotid Echo-Doppler is an ultrasound exam that assesses the arterial vessels of the neck, especially the carotid and vertebral arteries, analysing their structure and blood flow in real time.
At NRD, in Lisbon, you can have your Carotid Echo-Doppler performed in a clinical setting specialised in diagnostic imaging, with suitable technology for assessing vascular changes such as atheromatous plaques, arterial narrowing or changes in blood flow.
What is it and what is it used for?
Carotid Echo-Doppler, also known as Carotid Doppler, is an exam that combines conventional ultrasound with Doppler technology.
Ultrasound allows the cervical arterial vessels to be observed, namely the common, internal and external carotid arteries, as well as the vertebral arteries. Doppler makes it possible to assess the direction, speed and characteristics of blood flow in these vessels.
This exam is used to study the arterial circulation that contributes to the blood supply to the brain, helping to identify changes such as atherosclerotic plaques, narrowing of the arteries or other relevant vascular changes.
What is the price of Carotid Echo-Doppler?
The price of Carotid Echo-Doppler may vary depending on the agreement, subsystem, insurance or health plan used.
At NRD, this exam can be performed under different agreements and conventions:
- SNS / ARS: the patient pays no fee if the exam is performed at NRD with a prescription from the Health Centre;
- ADSE: the patient only pays the co-payment, usually €15;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, and other insurance companies;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Continente Wells, and other health plans.
There is also a special price list for clinics with an agreement.
How is it performed?
To perform Carotid Echo-Doppler, you may be asked to remove or move clothing away from the neck area, in order to expose the area to be examined. You will then be asked to lie down on the examination couch, usually on your back.
A gel is applied to the skin or directly to the ultrasound probe to facilitate contact and improve image quality. The healthcare professional moves the probe along the neck, assessing the carotid and vertebral arteries and analysing blood flow using Doppler.
During the exam, you may need to turn your head slightly from side to side, to allow better visualisation of the vessels.
The exam is painless, does not use radiation and, once completed, you can resume your usual routine.
What does it detect?
Carotid Echo-Doppler can detect and assess several changes in the cervical arterial vessels, including:
- atheromatous plaques or atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid arteries;
- arterial narrowing, also known as stenosis;
- changes in blood flow velocity;
- obstructions or significant reduction in arterial calibre;
- vascular calcifications;
- changes in the vertebral arteries;
- vascular changes that may require medical follow-up.
This exam allows the doctor to assess whether there are changes in the arterial circulation of the neck and to understand their clinical relevance, particularly in the context of vascular and cerebrovascular risk.
In which cases is it indicated?
Carotid Echo-Doppler may be indicated when there is suspicion of, or a need to assess, changes in cervical arterial circulation.
It is often recommended in cases of:
- suspected narrowing of the carotid arteries;
- presence of atherosclerotic plaques;
- carotid bruit detected during medical examination;
- history of stroke;
- history of transient ischaemic attack;
- transient neurological changes, dizziness or symptoms suggestive of changes in cerebral circulation, when indicated by the doctor;
- cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or smoking;
- follow-up of known carotid disease;
- assessment before or after vascular treatments;
- monitoring the progression of previously identified changes.
It may also be requested by your doctor to assess the degree of arterial narrowing, monitor the progression of atheromatous plaques or guide the need for surveillance or treatment.
Preparation for Carotid Echo-Doppler
Carotid Echo-Doppler is a simple, non-invasive exam that does not require any special preparation. However, some recommendations can make the exam easier to perform and allow an adequate assessment of the neck region.
| Topic | Recommendation |
| Exam prescription | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format, whenever applicable. |
| Fasting | Fasting is not required for this exam. |
| Clothing | Comfortable clothing is recommended, preferably with a wide collar or clothing that is easy to move away from the neck area. |
| Necklaces or accessories | Whenever possible, avoid wearing necklaces or accessories around the neck on the day of the exam. |
| Creams or lotions | Whenever possible, avoid applying creams, oils or lotions to the neck area on the day of the exam, to facilitate the ultrasound assessment. |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams, if available. |
| Usual medication | You should not stop taking your usual medication, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. |
| Early arrival | In general, you should arrive around 15 minutes before the scheduled time, unless different instructions are given when booking. |
| After the exam | You can resume your usual routine, with no need for special care. |
NRD will provide you with all the necessary instructions when booking your exam.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the results of the Carotid Echo-Doppler within 7 days after the exam, by email or on paper at the clinic.
On the day of the exam, you will be given the necessary information about how to collect or receive your results.
Where to do it?
Carotid Echo-Doppler can be done at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070-060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)