To assess

To evaluate the abdominal aorta for aneurysm (AAA) formation and atherosclerotic disease burden.

 

Limitation

None

 

Patient preparation

Patient should be NPO for 6-8 hours prior to study to reduce bowel gas

 

Equipment Setup

Transducer that allows for appropriate penetration and resolution of anatomy, depending on patient’s body habitus

 

Common pathology

• Splenomegaly >12-14 cm (or Volume >500cc) becomes rounded.

• Infection- multiple echogenic foci (granulomata)

• Haemangioma / Cysts / Metastases / Lymphoma

• Varices - portal hypertension

• Haematomas-intraparenchymal, subcapsular and pericapsular

• Abscess / Splenic infarction

 

Scanning Technique

• Measure the aorta at the largest diameter, noting intraluminal echoes should be obtained.

• The maximal AP and Transverse diameters are measured in the Proximal, Mid and Distal abdominal aorta.

• If an aneurysm is identified (>3cm in a male and >2.5cm in a female), then the distance from the renal arteries should be measured. Supra or infra-renal should be documented.