An abdominal aortic aneurysm, often shortened to AAA, is an enlargement of the main artery in the abdomen. Ultrasound can measure the visible abdominal aorta and help inform an appropriate surveillance or specialist pathway. Sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse or feeling faint needs emergency assessment, not a routine scan booking.
Ultrasound is used to assess the size of the abdominal aorta without radiation. Screening evidence has shown a reduction in AAA-related mortality in defined population groups offered one-time screening, but individual suitability and any surveillance plan need to follow the right clinical pathway.[1]
I use this private assessment for an appropriate clinical question. It is not a replacement for the NHS AAA Screening Programme or for emergency care when symptoms are acute.
Written & reviewed by
Dr George Xynopoulos
Consultant Physician and Cardiologist, GMC registered
What I Assess With a Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Scan
The scan measures the visible abdominal aorta and can describe an enlargement where it is seen. Bowel gas, body shape and anatomical position can limit views. A result should be interpreted with your symptoms, history and prior imaging where available.
| Part of the assessment | What the scan can help show |
|---|---|
| Abdominal aorta | Visible aortic diameter and any enlargement seen on the scan |
| Relevant aortic segment | The section of the aorta that can be assessed through the abdomen |
| Comparison with earlier imaging | Change over time when prior reports are available |
Preparation Before Your Appointment
Please do not eat for six hours before your appointment unless the clinic gives you different instructions. Water is usually fine. Fasting can reduce bowel gas and improve the view of the abdominal aorta.
Preparation summary: Fast for 6 hours. Water is usually permitted unless the clinic gives you a different instruction.
What Happens During the Scan
You lie comfortably while gel is applied to the abdomen. The sonographer moves an external probe across the upper and central abdomen and may ask you to change position or briefly hold your breath.
- Bring any relevant referral letter, previous scan report or clinic letter if you have one.
- Tell the team about new symptoms, recent surgery, hospital admissions and medicines that affect blood clotting.
- Ask if you are unsure whether this is the right examination before the scan begins.
How I Use the Result in Your Care Pathway
I use the measured result with your wider cardiovascular and family history. If the scan identifies a finding that needs surveillance or specialist input, I will explain the appropriate next route rather than treating a single measurement as a complete diagnosis.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Call 999 for sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse, fainting, clamminess or a rapidly worsening condition. Do not drive yourself to the clinic if you have these symptoms.
A routine ultrasound booking is not emergency care. If symptoms are sudden, severe, worsening, or include chest pain, breathing difficulty, collapse, new neurological symptoms or a cold painful limb, call 999 or attend A&E.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Check the clinical question
Before your appointment, I want the team to understand your symptoms, relevant history and the part of the circulation that needs assessment.
Follow the preparation advice
Water is usually permitted unless the clinic gives you a different instruction.
Have your duplex ultrasound
A sonographer uses an external probe, greyscale imaging and Doppler assessment of blood flow where relevant.
Plan the next step
Your report is considered alongside your symptoms and clinical history so that I can advise on suitable follow-up or urgent care.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- [1]Guirguis-Blake J, et al. Ultrasonography screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms: a systematic evidence review. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2014. DOI: 10.7326/M13-1844.
- [2]Fleming C, et al. Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm: a best-evidence systematic review. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2005. DOI: 10.7326/0003-4819-142-3-200502010-00012.
- [3]NICE. Abdominal aortic aneurysm: diagnosis and management (NG156).
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