Abdominal Aortic Ultrasound

An abdominal aortic ultrasound produces images of the aorta, which is the main blood vessel leading away from the heart. The test is painless and non-invasive, using high-frequency sound waves to map the aorta for locating potential problems.

Patients presenting with symptoms suggesting an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) need to undergo an abdominal aortic ultrasound for assessment.

During an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the walls of the aorta become weak and can balloon out in diameter. The ballooning effect is called an aneurysm. If the aneurysm becomes too big, it can rupture, causing severe abdominal or back pain, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath. An abdominal aortic ultrasound is typically recommended for patients who have a family history of AAA or for men age 60 or over with a previous smoking history.

If under 5 centimeters, the AAA will be monitored regularly to make sure it does not progress to a size needing repair. Larger aneurysms or ones that are growing quickly may require surgery. Treatment is determined by the size and location of the aneurysm as well as other conditions, such as the age of the patient and kidney function levels.

Most abdominal aortic aneurysms grow slowly over many years. Many patients never experience any noticeable symptoms.

Stanislaus Cardiology in Modesto, California, can perform and evaluate abdominal aortic ultrasounds in their state-of-the-art facilities.