Because abdominal aortic aneurysms can be difficult to detect on physical examination, particularly in overweight patients, the most common first test to check for an abdominal aortic ansurysm (AAA) is ultrasound. An ultrasound examination is a painless examination in which a device (a transducer) about the size of a computer mouse is passed over the abdomen. The ultrasound uses sound waves which are passed into the body. The signal from the sound waves is then computerized to create "pictures" of the aorta and detect the presence of AAA. Other methods for detecting or further evaluating the aneurysms' size and shape are CT scan (computerized tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
Currently, there are recommendations to screen, or check for AAA in males aged 65-70 years of age who have ever smoked. People who have family members with aneurysms and multiple risk factors such as smoking and high blood pressure may also benefit from screening. Ask your doctor if you think you should be tested for AAA. If you have a AAA the size should be checked every year to monitor for aneurysm growth.
