Ultrasound Examination of Head and Neck Vessels with Color Doppler (Duplex Scan)
A modern, safe, and high-resolution diagnostic method
At the Neurology Centre, we provide advanced, non-invasive ultrasound diagnostics of the head and neck blood vessels using duplex Doppler scanning. This method combines high-resolution ultrasound imaging with real-time color Doppler flow analysis, allowing simultaneous assessment of vascular anatomy and blood flow characteristics.
The examination is performed by experienced neurologists specializing in cerebrovascular diagnostics. A neurology consultation can also be arranged if booked in advance.
Duration of the Examination
Approximately 30 minutes.
Preparation
No special preparation is required. We recommend: comfortable clothing, avoiding bulky jewellery around the neck and ears.
How the Examination Is Performed
A duplex scan is completely painless, gentle, and non-invasive. During the procedure: a special gel is applied to the skin, the doctor moves the ultrasound probe across the following areas: anterior neck region – to assess the carotid arteries, temporal region – through the temporal acoustic windows, occipital region – to evaluate posterior circulation. The patient remains in a comfortable lying or semi-lying position throughout the examination.
Limitations
There are no age or health restrictions for this examination. It is suitable for both diagnostic and preventive purposes.
Advantages of the method
Very high image resolution Real-time evaluation of blood flow speed and direction Detects congenital and acquired vascular abnormalities No radiation, no contrast agents Safe for patients with kidney disease or allergies Enables early detection of factors that increase stroke risk
Results and conclusion
Will be issued by a doctor
What Can Be Seen on Doppler Ultrasound?
Vascular Anatomy
- vessel lumen diameter
- tortuosity and anatomical variants
- vascular branching patterns
Blood Flow
- flow speed and direction
- stenosis and occlusions
- turbulence within the vessel
Vessel Wall Condition
- wall thickening
- atherosclerotic plaques
- changes associated with increased stroke risk
The ultrasound probe is systematically moved across the head and neck regions, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of cerebral blood supply.
When Is the Examination Recommended?
- headaches, dizziness
- noise in the ears or head
- fainting episodes or loss of consciousness
- blood pressure fluctuations
- elevated cholesterol
- suspected atherosclerosis
- metabolic disorders
- cervical spondylosis
- previous stroke or TIA
- head or neck trauma
Role in Stroke Risk Assessment
Duplex Doppler allows early identification of:
- arterial wall thickening
- atherosclerotic plaques
- partial or complete vessel occlusions
These factors significantly increase stroke risk, and early detection is essential for preventing complications.
For an accurate evaluation of cerebral circulation, it is often necessary to assess both neck and intracranial vessels, as pathology may be present only in one segment.
If Additional Diagnostics Are Needed
A neurologist may recommend:
- CTA – CT angiography
- MRA – MR angiography
- DSA – digital subtraction angiography (invasive, highly precise method)
Take Care of Your Brain Health in Time
Schedule a head and neck vessel duplex Doppler ultrasound at the Neurology Centre — an informative, safe, and highly precise examination that helps evaluate cerebrovascular risk and guide further treatment planning.
