Delivering top-tier cardiovascular ultrasound services directly to your practice
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Delivering top-tier cardiovascular ultrasound services directly to your practice -
Abdominal Aorta Evaluation (AAA)
The aorta is the body’s largest blood vessel carrying blood away from the heart. AAA, or abdominal aortic aneurysm, is a condition where a part of the abdominal aorta’s walls become weak and bulge. While some people may now develop any symptoms, others can experience pain in the lower back, chest, abdomen, or a sensation in the belly. Aging, high blood pressure, a family history of AAA, and tobacco use are associated with a risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm, and a person may need surgery if the aneurysm is at risk of getting ruptured.
An abdominal aorta ultrasound is a non-invasive test a radiologist performs for aorta evaluation. The test uses sound waves at a high frequency to show the abdominal aorta. A more advanced and specialized technique, doppler, can measure the blood movement within the vessels to assess if it is flowing correctly. Ultrasound is a safe and harmless method that does not involve radiation or require any chemical injection. The complete evaluation may take about an hour, and it is best to get the test performed after an overnight fast and avoid tobacco or caffeine before the test.
Why perform Abdominal Aorta Evaluations (AAA) are performed
The abdominal aorta evaluation is performed to detect or rule out the possibility of abdominal aortic aneurysm. For patients with confirmed AAA diagnosis, ultrasounds effectively monitor the condition regularly and devise appropriate treatment strategies. The screening can help reduce the likelihood of rupture. Ultrasound helps the healthcare provider evaluate the aneurysm size, and the doctor can also use Doppler ultrasound to analyze the blood flow through the aorta.
Healthcare providers recommend ultrasound for people at a higher risk of abdominal aortic aneurysms. No further testing is needed for aortic diameter less than 3.0 cms, yearly ultrasound if the aortic diameter is between 3.0 to 4.0cms, twice a year for aortic diameter between 4.0 to 4.5 cms, and a thorough consultation by a vascular specialist when the aortic diameter is over 4.5 cms. By performing ultrasounds regularly, if the healthcare provider finds that the aneurysm has grown too large or there is an increased risk of rupture, the provider recommends surgery.