Ultrasound is regularly being used to evaluate abdominal aortic aneurysms. Abdominal aneurysm is a swelling of the aorta, the main blood vessel that brings blood for your heart to the rest of the body. The aorta is around 2.5 in the abdominal area, it can, however, swell to more than 5 cm.
Aneurysms are more common in men of 65+ years of age than in women and younger men, and they can be fatal as large aneurysms can burst. According to NHS Choices 8 out of 10 people with aortic aneurysm or AAA die.
It is highly unlikely that small aneurysms will cause any symptoms but large aneurysm can cause the following symptoms:
The Abdominal Aortic scan includes evaluation of:
Ultrasound report and if needed, a follow-up recommendation.
No preparation is necessary for this scan but avoid eating foods that can cause a significant amount of abdominal gas
Before the scan, our sonographer will explain the examination procedure. During your scan, you will be asked to expose your abdomen by lifting your top-up. We will put some ultrasonic gel on your skin, and we will use an ultrasound probe that sends sound waves in your body to visualize the aorta.
The scan is painless, and we will be able to tell you there and then if you do have an AAA. An ultrasound report will be issued to take it with you.
Vascular ultrasound is carried out in order to monitor blood flow to organs and tissues throughout the body, locate and identify blockages and abnormalities like blood clots, plaque or emboli.
Vascular ultrasound can also help to identify areas of abnormal widening of blood vessels (aneurysm) that, if left untreated, can lead to serious consequences.
A Doppler ultrasound study may be part of a vascular ultrasound examination. Doppler is a special ultrasound technique that evaluates the speed and volume of blood as it flows through a blood vessel, including the body's major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck. It can help to diagnose blockages to blood flow (such as clots) narrowing of vessels (possibly caused by plaque) and tumours and congenital malformation.
As the images are captured in real-time, they can help the sonographer monitor the blood flow to organs and tissues throughout the body.
5 out of 5 stars
I had a breast ultrasound with Daniela and all I have to say is that she was so professional and warm. I have anxiety and her energy calmed me somehow and I managed to stay calm during the scan....
5 out of 5 stars
I had an appointment with Daniela and had a great experience. I was a little nervous but Daniela managed to calm me down with her warm personality, knowledge and professionalism. Everything was...
5 out of 5 stars
Thanks so much for my last minute scan. All experience was smooth, booking was easy, appointment was quick and reassuring. Got the report the same day via email. Great service for a fair price.
5 out of 5 stars
Daniela is a true professional and a very warm, caring and friendly person. So far I have visited Daniela twice for scans first of breast and then of the abdomen. On my last visit she saw that I had...
5 out of 5 stars
Brilliant service and prices! Dr. Stan is professional, reliable and understanding. Could not hope for a better sonographer. Keep up the good work please. All the best.
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