MRA Carotids Scan
An MRA Carotids scan uses MRI technology to create detailed images of your carotid arteries, helping to visualise blood flow without using ionising radiation.
Written by the MyScanHub content team3 minutes reading time
From
£295
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MRA Carotids Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRA Carotids Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The common carotid arteries in your neck.
- The internal and external carotid arteries.
- The origins of the carotid arteries from the aorta.
- The vertebral arteries, which run alongside the carotids.
- The branching patterns of these major neck vessels.
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the carotids.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Experiencing a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or 'mini-stroke'.
- Sudden onset of weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Vision problems in one or both eyes.
- Dizziness or loss of balance.
- A history of stroke.
- Unexplained fainting or dizziness.
What an MRA Carotids Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Areas where blood flow might be narrowed (stenosis).
- Irregularities in the artery walls.
- Information about the shape and size of the arteries.
- Potential causes of stroke-related symptoms.
- Findings that may require further medical assessment or intervention.
Preparing for your MRA Carotids Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Please remove all jewellery and metal objects before entering the scanning room.
- You'll be asked to complete a short medical questionnaire.
- You can eat and drink as normal unless advised otherwise by our team.
- Wear comfortable clothing; you may be asked to change into a gown.
Please notify the team if:
- Do you have a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator, or other implanted electronic device?
- Have you had surgery involving metal implants, clips, or shrapnel, particularly in your head or eyes?
- Are you pregnant, or is there a possibility you might be pregnant?
- Do you have severe claustrophobia or anxiety in enclosed spaces?
Your report
Every MRI at MyScanHub is reported by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist. Your written report is delivered securely to your patient portal within 3 working days.
You can download the report and your images from your patient account to share with your GP, physiotherapist or specialist, or add a GP consultation to talk the findings through. How to open and share your results.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the carotids?
When you need answers quickly — or when prior imaging has been inconclusive — a private MRI at MyScanHub gives you timely access and specialist reporting without the wait.
Private scan benefits include:
- Fast access — same-day or next-day appointments, no waiting list
- Consultant radiologist report within 3 working days
- Fully-private, CQC-registered, GDPR-compliant imaging centre
- Secure online access to your report and images, easy to share with your GP or specialist
Smarter scanning. Proactive health. Peace of mind.
Step 1
Choose
Pick a scan or a programme. No GP referral required.
Step 2
Book
Select a time online — same-day availability most weekdays.
Step 3
Scan
Be seen by consultants at our Dartford, Kent imaging centre.
Step 4
Results
Consultant-led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an MRA Carotids scan take?
A typical MRA Carotids scan takes between 30 and 45 minutes to complete. Your appointment may be slightly longer to allow for preparation and discussion.
Will I need contrast dye for my MRA Carotids scan?
Contrast dye is sometimes used to improve the clarity of blood vessel images. If clinically required, this will be discussed with you beforehand and is available as an optional add-on for an additional fee. Your scan will proceed without contrast if it's not deemed necessary.
Can I get my results straight away?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You will receive your detailed report within 3 working days, accessible via your secure online patient portal. You can then share this with your GP or clinician.
Is an MRA Carotids scan safe?
MRI scans use a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not ionising radiation, making them a safe imaging technique for most people. We carefully screen all patients for contraindications before the scan.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — MyScanHub accepts self-referral for most scans. Our consultant radiologists review every case. Some scans (e.g. contrast studies) do need a referring clinician; we'll let you know at booking.
When will I get my report?
Written reports from a GMC-registered consultant radiologist are delivered within 3 working days of your scan, often sooner. You can access the report — and the imaging — through your patient account at myscanhub.com.
Where is the clinic?
Our imaging centre is at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, Kent (DA9 9ST), in the Guildhall Outer Car Park — free parking, a few minutes from junction 2 of the M25 and the A2. We're open Monday to Saturday 8am–9pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. Full directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
Ready to book your MRA Carotids Scan?
Book online in minutes. Same-day and next-day slots available most weekdays in Dartford, Kent. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
At our clinic in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford: free parking, open seven days. How to find us · All private MRI scans in Dartford & Kent