What is it?

An abdominal aorta ultrasound is the preferred method used to screen for abdominal aortic aneurysms. The abdominal aorta is the major blood vessel supplying blood to your body from the heart. This ultrasound will allow your provider to see the structures inside your abdomen to help them diagnose or rule out a variety of health conditions.

Why we do it?

When the walls of the abdominal aorta become weak, they may balloon outward If the aorta reaches over 3 centimeters in diameter, it is then called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). As the aneurysm gets larger, the risk of rupture increases.

Ultrasound imaging of the aorta is useful for measuring its size to screen for AAA. Screening is particularly recommended for men over the age of 60 who have ever smoked and for anyone with a family history of AAA. In addition to screening, ultrasound is also a useful tool after the diagnosis of AAA to monitor its size on a regular basis to see if it needs to be repaired.

When is it ordered?

If an aneurysm expands rapidly, tears, or leaks, the following symptoms may develop to prompt an abdominal aorta ultrasound:

• intense and persistent abdominal or back pain that may radiate to the buttocks and legs

• sweating and clamminess

• dizziness

• nausea and vomiting

• rapid heart rate

• shortness of breath

• low blood pressure.

How should you prepare?

No special preparations are needed, but you should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

How long does the test last?

The test lasts for approximately 15 minutes.